a landmark decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a landmark decision" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a significant or pivotal ruling, often in a legal context, that sets a precedent or has a major impact. Example: "The Supreme Court's ruling on same-sex marriage was a landmark decision that changed the legal landscape for LGBTQ+ rights in the country."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It was seen as a landmark decision.

The New Yorker

"This is a landmark decision," he said.

The New York Times

"I personally believe this is a landmark decision," he said.

The Guardian

Here's a young lady who made a landmark decision".

The New York Times - Sports

The holding all but overrules a landmark decision of the Warren court, Flast v. Cohen.

The New York Times

He lost the case, a landmark decision in the contest between federal authority and states' rights.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Hennessy declared that a New York campus was "a landmark decision".

The New Yorker

The case has been cited as a landmark decision in acknowledging the value of pet ownership.

The New York Times

A number of game designers called Brown v. Entertainment Merchants Association a "landmark decision".

The New Yorker

This must be seen as a landmark decision and I am delighted for Hartley.

The Guardian

Last week, a US judge in Manhattan made a landmark decision.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about legal or political matters, consider using "a landmark decision" to underscore the importance of a ruling that has broad implications.

Common error

Avoid using "a landmark decision" for everyday decisions or events that lack significant, lasting impact. Reserve it for occasions that genuinely alter the course of events or set legal precedents.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a landmark decision" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies and characterizes a specific decision as being particularly significant or precedent-setting. Ludwig AI examples confirm its use in describing impactful rulings and choices.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a landmark decision" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant ruling or choice that sets a precedent or has lasting impact. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news and media, encyclopedias and wiki contexts. While versatile, it should be reserved for events with genuine, lasting consequences. Alternatives include "a pivotal decision" or "a groundbreaking ruling", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When writing, make sure to use the phrase to underscore the importance of a decision that has broad implications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pivotal decision

Replaces "landmark" with "pivotal", emphasizing the turning point nature of the decision.

a watershed moment

Emphasizes the turning point aspect of a decision, marking a significant change or shift.

a groundbreaking ruling

Specifically used for legal decisions and emphasizes the innovative or precedent-setting nature.

a precedent-setting judgment

Highlights the role of the decision in establishing a new standard or legal principle.

a crucial determination

Focuses on the critical and decisive aspect of the decision-making process.

a significant resolution

Emphasizes the importance and impact of the decision on resolving an issue.

a turning point

Highlights that the decision marked a critical juncture or a significant departure from the past.

a game-changing choice

Implies that the decision significantly alters the dynamics or outcomes in a particular situation.

a historic verdict

Highlights the lasting historical significance and impact of the decision.

a momentous ruling

Emphasizes the great importance or consequence of the decision.

FAQs

How to use "a landmark decision" in a sentence?

Use "a landmark decision" to describe a ruling or choice that establishes a precedent or significantly alters the course of events. For example: "The Supreme Court's ruling on the case was "a landmark decision" for civil rights."

What can I say instead of "a landmark decision"?

You can use alternatives like "a pivotal decision", "a groundbreaking ruling", or "a watershed moment" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a landmark decision" or "an important decision"?

"A landmark decision" signifies a decision with lasting impact and precedent-setting value, while "an important decision" simply indicates that a decision is significant. The choice depends on the level of impact you want to convey.

What's the difference between "a landmark decision" and "a historic decision"?

"A landmark decision" sets a new legal or procedural precedent, while "a historic decision" is notable for its impact on history or its cultural significance. While they can overlap, a landmark decision specifically alters the legal landscape.