a sensible course of action

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sensible course of action" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a decision or strategy that is logical and reasonable in a given situation. Example: "After considering all the options, we concluded that implementing a new training program was a sensible course of action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

One leading environmental campaigner said: "It seems like a sensible course of action – finally, the CRU seem to be getting their public response in order.

The Guardian

In some cases this meant not taking any modules until the first term of the second sixth-form year - a sensible course of action in the light of research at Belfast University showing that greater maturity brings higher grades and reduces the need for resits.

The Guardian

I also challenged whether having hard-Brexit MPs and even cabinet ministers offend and alienate our European neighbours is a sensible course of action, given that we will have to sit opposite them across a negotiating table within a matter of months.

The Guardian - Opinion

Greenspan must take the lead and carry out a sensible course of action, advocating sensible prescriptions.

Forbes

When the social approval benefits outweigh any short-term negatives for economic performance, engaging in the hottest IT may be a sensible course of action, as long as organizational leaders understand this trade-off.

Forbes

Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies told MPs on the committee: "I haven't heard an argument other than Scotland have the lockstep so Wales should have it, that would convince me that the lockstep is a sensible course of action to restrain or restrict any future Welsh government from being able to use these powers imaginatively, but I remain to be convinced".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Spatial terms are also freely used in the expression of other, more abstract relationships: higher temperature, higher quality, lower expectations, summit of a career, far removed from any sensible course of action, a distant relationship, close friends, over and above what had been said.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But Mr Hague said a referendum on EU membership would not be a "very sensible course of action" at a time of economic crisis.

BBC

We therefore support the priority given to the issue of debt cancellation and find it an eminently sensible course of action, and we believe that those countries which are moving towards democratisation and which are committed to the introduction of sustainable and free economies should be eligible for full debt cancellation.

EU Parlament

So you see JI, whether it's because you are surrounded by idiots or indeed, are an idiot yourself, the only sensible course of action is to get a new job.

The Guardian - Money

Think the main takeaway story from the Tinder Poo Girl story going viral is this: all of us can feasibly enter a headspace where we might think wrapping a turd in tissue paper and flinging it weakly out of a window might be the most sensible course of action.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure that the phrase "a sensible course of action" aligns with the overall tone and register of your text. It is suitable for both formal and semi-formal contexts where clarity and reason are valued.

Common error

Avoid using "a sensible course of action" in very informal or casual writing. Simpler alternatives like "the smart thing to do" or "the right move" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sensible course of action" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It describes a particular plan or decision deemed reasonable and practical. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and common usage of this expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sensible course of action" is a commonly used phrase that describes a rational and practical approach or decision. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, the phrase maintains a generally neutral to professional register. When using it, ensure it aligns with the tone of your writing, opting for simpler alternatives in informal settings. Consider alternatives like "a prudent action" or "a logical step" for subtle differences in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prudent action

Emphasizes caution and foresight in the action.

a judicious decision

Highlights the sound judgment involved in making the decision.

a logical step

Focuses on the clear and rational progression of the action.

an intelligent choice

Highlights the smart or clever nature of the choice.

a well-advised measure

Suggests the action was taken based on good counsel.

a reasonable approach

Focuses on the action being fair and appropriate for the situation.

a sound strategy

Highlights the action as part of a comprehensive and effective plan.

a practical solution

Emphasizes the action's effectiveness in addressing a specific problem.

a viable option

Focuses on the action being realistic and capable of succeeding.

a fitting response

Highlights the action as appropriate or suitable in a given situation.

FAQs

How can I use "a sensible course of action" in a sentence?

You can use "a sensible course of action" to describe a choice or plan that is logical and well-reasoned. For example: "After evaluating the risks, pursuing the partnership seemed like "a sensible course of action"."

What are some alternatives to "a sensible course of action"?

Alternatives include "a prudent action", "a logical step", or "a reasonable approach", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a sensible course of action" formal or informal?

"A sensible course of action" is appropriate for both formal and semi-formal contexts. For informal situations, simpler phrases might be more suitable.

When is it best to use "a sensible course of action" over other similar phrases?

Use "a sensible course of action" when you want to emphasize that a decision or plan is based on sound judgment and practicality, making it a logical choice among available options.