ample discretion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ample discretion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the freedom to make decisions or judgments based on one's own judgment or preferences, often in a professional or formal context. Example: "The manager has ample discretion to approve or deny requests for overtime based on the team's workload."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Under the Fifth Republic the president enjoys ample discretion.

The Economist

Mr. Levine replied, "You will have ample discretion to impose restrictions".

The New York Times

Federal courts have ample discretion to keep sensitive intelligence under seal, while still affording defendants a legitimate adversarial process.

The New York Times

4 The deference that is owed can be found in the Constitution itself, which provides the Senate ample discretion to determine how best to try impeachments.

Cornell University

15 Moreover, § 7 of Chapter 531 has amended the ABC Law by granting to the State Liquor Authority ample discretion to modify the schedule requirements.

Cornell University

In a way, the UK system also relies on the latter approach, given the open-ended nature of its takeover regime, as well as the ample discretion awarded to the Takeover Panel in administering and enforcing the Code.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The insubstantiality of the evidence for showing any danger in freeing each individual alien on bail raises ample doubt whether the Attorney General exercised a discretion as instructed by statute.

Cornell University

In these instances there would be ample notice to the actor and no room for undue discretion by enforcement officers.

Cornell University

Citing previous executive writings as "ample precedent," the current head of the Office of Legal Counsel, Virginia Seitz, wrote that the president has "absolute discretion" to choose "whomever he considers most suitable" to be his diplomatic agent, clearing Dr. Holdren to ignore the statute.

The New York Times

Ample parking.

The New York Times

Some discretion?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ample discretion", clarify the scope and limits of this discretion to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify who possesses the discretion and in what context it applies.

Common error

Avoid implying that "ample discretion" means unlimited authority. Even with considerable freedom, there are usually implicit or explicit boundaries. Clearly define these to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ample discretion" functions as a noun phrase with an adjectival modifier. The adjective "ample" intensifies the noun "discretion", indicating a significant degree of freedom or leeway. This is supported by Ludwig examples showcasing various contexts where this freedom is exercised.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

40%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ample discretion" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies considerable freedom in decision-making. According to Ludwig, its usage is prevalent across news, academic, and scientific contexts. While it denotes significant latitude, it doesn't imply unlimited power, making it crucial to define its scope. Alternatives like "broad latitude" or "considerable authority" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. The phrase is deemed appropriate for formal writing and should be employed with clarity to avoid overstating the extent of the freedom it describes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discretionary powers

Highlights the powers to make decisions based on one's own judgment.

broad latitude

Focuses on the range of permissible actions, emphasizing freedom from constraint.

extensive leeway

Highlights the flexibility and room for maneuvering in a given situation.

unfettered judgment

Emphasizes the freedom from any constraints on one's decision making process.

considerable authority

Emphasizes the power and right to make decisions.

significant flexibility

Highlights the adaptability and freedom to adjust to different situations.

wide berth

Focuses on the freedom to act independently without close supervision.

substantial autonomy

Emphasizes the self-governance and independence in decision-making.

full prerogative

Highlights the exclusive right or privilege to make decisions.

untrammeled power

Focuses on the unrestricted and unchecked nature of the authority.

FAQs

How can "ample discretion" be used in a legal context?

In legal settings, "ample discretion" often refers to the latitude given to judges or administrators to make decisions based on their judgment. For example, a judge might have "ample discretion" in sentencing, but this is still guided by legal principles.

What's a synonym for "ample discretion"?

Alternatives to "ample discretion" include "broad latitude", "considerable authority", or "significant flexibility". Each emphasizes a slightly different aspect of the freedom to decide.

Is it appropriate to use "ample discretion" in formal writing?

Yes, "ample discretion" is suitable for formal writing. It conveys a clear and professional tone when discussing decision-making authority in business, legal, or academic contexts.

What is the difference between "ample discretion" and "unlimited power"?

"Ample discretion" implies a significant degree of freedom within defined boundaries, whereas "unlimited power" suggests no constraints whatsoever. While someone with "ample discretion" has considerable latitude, they are still accountable and must operate within certain rules or guidelines.