assessing whether to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "assessing whether to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when evaluating options or making decisions about a particular course of action. Example: "The committee is assessing whether to proceed with the proposed changes to the policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

The regulator is assessing whether to launch a formal investigation into the programme.

The Guardian

The UK is the birthplace of Kit Kat and we are assessing whether to appeal".

Independent

We will consider the impact of this transitional policy in assessing whether to extend it beyond the specified timeframe.

The Guardian

Ms. Renner said Washington was assessing whether to take further steps.

The New York Times

It is assessing whether to take the judgment to the Supreme Court.

Independent

Nielsen has said in the past that it is assessing whether to define "TV household" to include these viewers.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Mr. Sharpton said he was meeting with supporters and advisers to assess whether to campaign in Texas, Florida and Mississippi, states conducting primaries next week.

The New York Times

The World Health Organisation still needs to assess whether to recommend the use of the drug for children.

Independent

After 90 days, the police will assess whether to allow additional bus traffic on Park Row, which connects the Brooklyn Bridge and Broadway to the Bowery and the Lower East Side.

The New York Times

CompuCredit has signed an agreement with Fleet Credit Card Services to look at Fleet's rejected card applicants and assess whether to give them CompuCredit cards.

The New York Times

5 U.S. Delegation in Libya Four State Department officials arrived in Libya to assess whether to lift a ban on travel by Americans.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "assessing whether to", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being evaluated and what the potential actions are. Provide sufficient information to understand the decision-making process.

Common error

Avoid using "assessing whether to" in overly passive constructions where the actor is unclear. Instead, specify who is doing the assessing to maintain clarity and directness in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "assessing whether to" functions as an introductory phrase indicating the beginning of an evaluation or decision-making process. It sets the stage for considering different options or actions, as shown in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "assessing whether to" is a common and grammatically correct construction used to introduce the evaluation of a potential action or decision. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use across various contexts, primarily in News & Media and Science. While the phrase maintains a neutral register, writers should be mindful of avoiding overly passive constructions to ensure clarity. Alternative phrases, such as "evaluating if it's appropriate to" or "determining the advisability of", can be used to add nuance or formality. Overall, "assessing whether to" is a versatile and reliable phrase for expressing intent to evaluate options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

evaluating if it's appropriate to

Replaces "assessing whether to" with a more descriptive phrase focused on appropriateness.

determining the advisability of

Uses more formal vocabulary to convey the act of deciding if something is recommended.

considering if action is needed

Focuses on the need for action as a result of the assessment.

investigating the possibility of

Highlights the exploratory aspect of assessing potential options.

weighing up the option of

Uses a more colloquial expression of considering options.

exploring the feasibility of

Focuses on the practical aspects of assessing a plan or idea.

examining the potential for

Shifts the focus to evaluating the potential outcomes of a decision.

reviewing the decision to

Highlights that a decision is already present and needs review.

checking if it is correct to

Focuses on the validation and correctness of an action.

pondering the idea of

Uses a more reflective and thoughtful synonym for assessing.

FAQs

How can I use "assessing whether to" in a sentence?

You can use "assessing whether to" when evaluating a decision or potential course of action. For example, "The committee is "assessing whether to" proceed with the proposed changes."

What are some alternatives to "assessing whether to"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "evaluating if it's appropriate to", "determining the advisability of", or "considering if action is needed", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "assessing whether to" and "deciding whether to"?

"Assessing whether to" implies a more thorough evaluation process, while "deciding whether to" suggests a more conclusive determination is being made. Assessing is often a preliminary step to deciding.

Which is more formal, "assessing whether to" or "checking whether to"?

"Assessing whether to" generally carries a more formal tone than "checking whether to", which is more informal. The best choice depends on the context and audience.