a major decision

USAGE SUMMARY

'a major decision' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you are talking about a big or important choice that needs to be made. For example, "The board of directors must make a major decision about the company's future."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They knew it was a major decision.

Yale University

"I think it's a major decision for the country".

The New York Times

�� Tim Roth could be facing a major decision this week.

The Guardian - Film

Either of those coming back into the first-team will represent a major decision by Mourinho.

Independent

Those officials soon had more information about the storm, and a major decision to make.

The New York Times

In November, a major decision will be taken at the Fourth WTO Ministerial Conference.

Yale University

The committee's head, Jeroen Dijsselbloem of the Netherlands, said he expected a "major decision".

The Guardian

"That was: Don't ever make a major decision any sooner than is necessary.

The New York Times - Sports

Both Barkley and Murphy are coy about a major decision that will come soon.

The New York Times - Sports

"I cannot imagine what you must have went through in reaching such a major decision".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

This was followed by a 'major decision on strategic direction' (24%) and Individual Funding Requests (IFRs) (9%).

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use other qualifying adjectives before 'major' for clarity. For example: 'a difficult major decision', 'a controversial major decision' etc.

Common error

Avoid using "a major decision" when describing minor choices, as this can diminish the phrase's impact and credibility. Reserve it for truly significant determinations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major decision" functions primarily as a noun phrase, serving as the subject, object, or complement in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form. Its presence in examples from diverse sources indicates its grammatical versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a major decision" effectively conveys the importance and impact of a significant choice. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage and frequent appearance across diverse sources, including news, academic texts, and scientific publications. While versatile, it's important to reserve "a major decision" for choices that genuinely warrant such emphasis, avoiding overuse in trivial contexts. Alternatives such as "a critical choice" or "a pivotal determination" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific context. The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a critical choice

Emphasizes the importance and potential consequences of the decision.

a pivotal determination

Highlights the turning point aspect of the decision, suggesting it will significantly influence future events.

a significant judgment

Focuses on the evaluative and thoughtful nature of the decision-making process.

an important resolution

Implies the decision brings clarity or settles a matter of considerable weight.

a weighty conclusion

Stresses the seriousness and potential impact of the decision.

a consequential ruling

Suggests the decision has far-reaching effects and sets a precedent.

a crucial assessment

Highlights the need for careful consideration and evaluation before making the decision.

a game-changing selection

Indicates the decision will dramatically alter the current situation or future prospects.

a defining moment

Emphasizes the lasting impact and symbolic importance of the decision.

a strategic call

Focuses on the calculated and intentional nature of the decision, often in a business or competitive context.

FAQs

How can I use "a major decision" in a sentence?

You can use "a major decision" to describe a significant choice, as in "The company faces "a major decision" regarding its future investments".

What are some alternatives to saying "a major decision"?

Alternatives include "a critical choice", "a pivotal determination", or "a significant judgment", each carrying slightly different connotations.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a major decision"?

It is appropriate when referring to a choice that has significant consequences or impact. Using it for trivial matters can dilute its meaning.

Is "major decision" formal or informal?

The phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though its impact is greatest when used judiciously in situations where the decision truly warrants such emphasis.