a sensible tactic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sensible tactic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a strategy or approach that is reasonable and practical in a given situation. Example: "In negotiations, adopting a sensible tactic can lead to more favorable outcomes for both parties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

It was a sensible tactic – overdue if anything – and one that surely should continue in the semi-finals.

The Guardian - Sport

Others see combining a cap-and-trade system with a nuclear aid package as a sensible tactic to get Congress to address environmental problems.

The New York Times

Going in a group is a sensible tactic if you want to try more than one dish, and guarantee a bit of a buzz – at weekends, families fill up the two spacious dining rooms.

The Guardian - Travel

BERNARD LIROLA, manager of the Needham Growth fund, finds the purchase of new small caps a sensible tactic, but he advises checking companies' balance sheets to help avoid stocks destined to become even smaller.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Downtown at Zuccotti Park, the police have adopted the more sensible tactic of leaving the protesters largely to their own devices.

The New Yorker

Had these sensible tactics been followed in 2003, admits the general, the Americans would not be facing their current troubles.

The Economist

The English cried foul treachery, but the Spanish dismissed the action as sensible tactics when dealing with pirates.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We need direct action, and other activities using sensible tactics to show the Government we will not accept higher fees, and we will not accept cuts to higher education funding.

The Guardian

This is, says Tim Birkhead in Bird Sense, "a sensible energy-saving tactic" because brains are a big expense: the human brain for instance uses 10 times as much energy as any other organ.

The Guardian

In any football match it is a sensible and wholly justifiable tactic to focus on an opponents' weakness, whether that be a dodgy left-back, a goalkeeper who can't catch crosses, or – in Arsenal's case – a soft midfield.

Independent

It is a showy, predatory kind of tactic, but a sensible one when the rest of the race fears you.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider the specific context and choose synonyms that best reflect the nuances you want to convey, such as "a reasonable strategy" or "a practical approach".

Common error

While "a sensible tactic" is valid, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "a strategic move" or "a pragmatic solution" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sensible tactic" functions as a noun phrase, where 'sensible' modifies 'tactic'. It describes a specific kind of tactic – one that is practical and well-reasoned. According to Ludwig AI, this is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sensible tactic" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English, denoting a practical and well-reasoned approach. While relatively uncommon, it appears mostly in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability, highlighting that it's a valuable tool for describing strategies that are not only effective but also demonstrate good judgment. Consider alternatives like "a reasonable strategy" or "a practical approach" to avoid repetition and maintain reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a reasonable strategy

Emphasizes the logical and justifiable nature of the strategy.

a practical approach

Focuses on the feasibility and effectiveness of the method.

a sound method

Highlights the reliability and effectiveness of the method.

a judicious plan

Stresses the careful and wise planning involved.

a well-advised course of action

Highlights the thoughtful and considered nature of the action.

a prudent measure

Emphasizes the cautious and wise nature of the action.

a logical maneuver

Highlights the clear and rational reasoning behind the maneuver.

a smart play

Implies cleverness and strategic advantage.

an astute move

Highlights the keen awareness and intelligence behind the move.

a pragmatic solution

Focuses on the realistic and practical aspects of the solution.

FAQs

How can I use "a sensible tactic" in a sentence?

You can use "a sensible tactic" to describe an action or strategy that is practical and shows good judgment. For example, "Implementing a budget plan was "a sensible tactic" to manage expenses effectively."

What are some alternatives to "a sensible tactic"?

Alternatives include "a reasonable strategy", "a practical approach", or "a judicious plan". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "a sensible tactic" formal or informal?

"A sensible tactic" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "a prudent measure" may be more suitable for highly formal writing.

What does it mean to describe something as "a sensible tactic"?

To describe something as "a sensible tactic" means that it is a practical and well-reasoned approach that is likely to lead to a positive outcome. It implies that the tactic is based on sound judgment and common sense.