an instant decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an instant decision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a decision made quickly or without delay. Example: "After considering the options for only a moment, she made an instant decision to accept the job offer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

"I made an instant decision," Copaken said.

The New Yorker

But Netanyahu made an instant decision.

The Guardian

The psychically numb Skip (as in overlooked) makes an instant decision.

The New York Times - Books

Characteristically, Nevins made an instant decision, based almost entirely on her sense of surprise.

The New York Times - Magazine

I made an instant decision: I am not going to let myself get frustrated or move into victim mode.

The New York Times

Long lines of unframed canvases were laid out along the corridors and she walked past them, giving an instant decision.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

An admissions counselor at New Jersey City University ushered her into an office on Instant Decision Day, and 10 minutes later, she emerged, looking dazed but very happy.

The New York Times

New Zealander O'Brien added: "Alain is a highly experienced referee and had a clear view of the incident, which enabled him to make an accurate and instant decision.

BBC

It was certainly enough for Smith to take a few instant decisions without much controversy, such as cancelling a now long-forgotten proposal to build a vast round shed in Greenwich, south London, which the Conservatives had planned as a symbol for the millennium, and for which nobody could think of a use.

The Guardian

I have never regretted that instant decision to start a conversation with her.

Science Magazine

Its CUOK.uk arm also offers payday loans at a fraction of the cost of commercial operators, but still promises an instant loan decision and same-day payment.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing decisions made under pressure or in time-sensitive situations, use "an instant decision" to convey the urgency and lack of deliberation involved.

Common error

Avoid using "an instant decision" when the decision-making process involved some level of consideration, even if brief. Instead, opt for terms like "a quick decision" or "a rapid choice" to better reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an instant decision" serves as a noun phrase, functioning as the object of a verb or as a subject complement. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It describes a decision made quickly and without hesitation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an instant decision" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression for describing a choice made rapidly. According to Ludwig AI, it is frequently encountered in contexts where speed and immediacy are key. While "an instant decision" is generally appropriate, it's important to consider alternative phrases like "a quick decision" or "a snap judgment" to fine-tune the meaning. The register remains neutral, making the expression useful in a variety of writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an on-the-spot decision

Highlights that the decision was made at the location or moment the need arose.

a quick decision

A more general term indicating the decision was made fast.

a snap judgment

Emphasizes the quick and potentially impulsive nature of the decision.

a split-second decision

Emphasizes the extremely short timeframe in which the choice was made.

a swift resolution

Highlights the speed and efficiency of the decision-making process.

a prompt choice

Focuses on the immediacy and readiness of the selection.

an immediate determination

Stresses the decisiveness and lack of delay in reaching a conclusion.

an impromptu decision

Suggests the decision was made without prior planning or thought.

a rapid conclusion

Underscores the speed at which the decision was reached.

a knee-jerk reaction

Implies the decision was automatic and potentially without much thought.

FAQs

How can I use "an instant decision" in a sentence?

You can use "an instant decision" to describe a choice made very quickly, often in response to something unexpected. For example, "Faced with the emergency, the pilot had to make "a split-second decision" to land the plane in the river."

What phrases are similar to "an instant decision"?

Alternatives include "a snap judgment", "a quick decision", or "an on-the-spot decision", each carrying slightly different connotations regarding the speed and thoughtfulness of the choice.

Is it always positive to make "an instant decision"?

Not necessarily. While sometimes necessary in emergencies, "an instant decision" can also imply a lack of careful consideration, potentially leading to negative outcomes. The context determines whether it's a virtue or a flaw.

How does "an instant decision" differ from "a considered decision"?

"An instant decision" implies speed and a lack of deliberation, while "a considered decision" suggests careful thought and evaluation of different options before making a choice. They are opposites in terms of the decision-making process.