a smart move

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a smart move' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an action that is thought to be wise or beneficial. For example: "Making the decision to invest in a retirement plan was a smart move."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a smart move.

The New York Times

"I think it's a smart move.

The New York Times - Sports

That probably was a smart move.

The New York Times - Sports

Is that a smart move?

The New York Times - Travel

But it's a smart move.

The Guardian - Arts

That was a smart move.

The New York Times

Modesty aside, it's a smart move.

The Guardian - Film

Analysts considered the restructuring a smart move.

The New York Times

This was a smart move by him.

The Guardian - Sport

It didn't look like a smart move.

The Guardian - Books

But is it a smart move?

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a smart move" to positively evaluate a decision or action, especially when highlighting foresight or strategic thinking. For example, "Hiring a dedicated marketing team was a smart move, and it significantly boosted their brand awareness."

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "a smart move". While useful, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "wise decision", "clever tactic", or "astute maneuver" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a smart move" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or an appositive. It serves to describe or evaluate a particular action or decision, deeming it intelligent or advantageous. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Sport

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a smart move" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express approval or commend a decision as intelligent or strategic. Ludwig examples reveal its prevalence in news, sports, and business contexts, making it versatile for various writing styles. While generally neutral, choose synonyms like "a wise decision" or "a clever tactic" to avoid overuse and maintain writing engagement. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and widely applicable across many contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a wise decision

Focuses on the wisdom behind the action, emphasizing foresight and good judgment.

an intelligent choice

Directly highlights the intelligence behind the selection of the particular course of action.

a clever tactic

Highlights the ingenuity and strategic thinking involved in the action.

an astute maneuver

Emphasizes the skill and perception required to execute the action effectively.

a strategic play

Highlights the planned and deliberate nature of the action, often in a competitive context.

a canny approach

Suggests shrewdness and resourcefulness in the way the action is carried out.

a judicious step

Emphasizes the careful and considered nature of the action, avoiding rashness or recklessness.

a well-thought-out plan

Focuses on the planning stage, emphasizing the thoroughness and consideration given to the action.

a sagacious action

This alternative emphasizes the profound wisdom and insight demonstrated by the action.

a prudent measure

Underscores the carefulness and risk aversion involved in the action, prioritizing safety and security.

FAQs

How can I use "a smart move" in a sentence?

You can use "a smart move" to describe a decision or action that is considered intelligent, beneficial, or strategic. For example, "Investing in renewable energy was "a smart move" for the company's long-term sustainability."

What are some alternatives to saying "a smart move"?

Instead of saying "a smart move", you could use alternatives such as "a wise decision", "a clever tactic", or "an astute maneuver".

Is "a smart move" formal or informal?

"A smart move" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal settings might benefit from alternatives like "a prudent measure" or "a judicious step".

What makes a move "smart"?

A "smart move" typically demonstrates foresight, strategic thinking, and an understanding of potential outcomes. It's a decision that is likely to lead to a positive result or advantage.