a matter of judgment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a matter of judgment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing decisions or evaluations that require personal or subjective assessment. Example: "Choosing the right candidate for the job is often a matter of judgment based on experience and intuition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a matter of judgment.

Independent

That's a matter of judgment.

The New York Times

Of course, this is a matter of judgment.

Harvard Business Review

"That is a matter of judgment for him," he said.

The Guardian - Tech

It's a matter of judgment, not just experience.

The New York Times

The other mistake was made by Henrik Lundqvist, and it was also a matter of judgment.

The New Yorker

Important aspects, especially valuation, are a matter of judgment rather than of fact.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It remains a matter of judgment based on all of the circumstances of the transaction.

Cornell University

Without the benefit of hindsight, your response to this question is clearly a matter of judgment.

Harvard Business Review

Ultimately, however, the "right-sizing" of judgment is itself a matter of judgment.

Harvard Business Review

As for whether Nixon acted irresponsibly, that's a matter of judgment, not fact.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a matter of judgment" when highlighting the role of personal assessment or discretion in a decision or evaluation. This is especially useful when objective criteria are insufficient.

Common error

Avoid using "a matter of judgment" to dismiss the need for evidence or analysis. While judgment is important, it should be informed by available facts and logical reasoning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a matter of judgment" functions as a noun phrase used to indicate that a decision, assessment, or evaluation is based on subjective criteria rather than objective facts. As shown by Ludwig, it is commonly used to express that something depends on personal discernment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a matter of judgment" is a common phrase used to indicate that a decision or evaluation relies on subjective assessment rather than objective criteria. Ludwig AI analysis confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and academia. While versatile, it's essential to avoid overusing the phrase to dismiss the need for supporting evidence. Consider alternatives such as "a question of opinion" or "a matter of discretion" to fine-tune the intended nuance. Always ensure that any judgment is informed by available facts and logical reasoning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a question of opinion

This phrase emphasizes that the matter is based on individual beliefs or viewpoints, rather than objective facts.

a matter of discretion

This highlights the freedom to decide or choose based on one's own judgment and principles.

subjective assessment

Focuses on the personal and biased nature of the evaluation, contrasting with objective analysis.

personal evaluation

Emphasizes that the assessment is based on an individual's own criteria and perspective.

dependent on perspective

This highlights that the outcome or understanding is influenced by one's viewpoint.

open to interpretation

Indicates that the matter can be understood in multiple ways, depending on individual understanding.

left to individual choice

Stresses that the decision is up to each person to make according to their preferences.

a question of taste

Implies that the matter is based on personal preferences and aesthetic sensibilities.

up for debate

Suggests that the matter is not definitively settled and is subject to discussion and differing opinions.

a value judgment

Implies the decision is based on personal values or beliefs, not necessarily facts.

FAQs

How can I use "a matter of judgment" in a sentence?

You can use "a matter of judgment" to indicate that a decision or assessment is based on personal evaluation rather than objective facts. For example, "Determining the best course of action in this situation is "a matter of judgment"".

What's a more formal alternative to "a matter of judgment"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "a question of discretion" or "a subjective assessment". These alternatives emphasize the role of considered evaluation in decision-making.

Is it always appropriate to describe something as "a matter of judgment"?

While often suitable, be mindful not to overuse the phrase when objective criteria exist. Over-reliance on subjectivity can undermine the credibility of your assessment. Ensure that the assessment is informed by facts and logical reasoning and not just by "opinion".

What is the difference between "a matter of judgment" and "a matter of opinion"?

"A matter of judgment" suggests a considered evaluation based on experience and knowledge, while "a matter of opinion" implies a personal belief or viewpoint without necessarily involving expertise. While they can overlap in meaning, "judgment" carries a connotation of informed assessment.