at its own discretion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at its own discretion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the ability of an individual or organization to make decisions based on their own judgment or preferences. Example: "The committee will allocate funds at its own discretion, considering the needs of each project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Each alumni site reserves the rights to define its alumni body at its own discretion.

Stanford University

Lidia, 28, who lives in Hells Kitchen, tries to hide her excitement, but her grin appears at its own discretion.

The New York Times

At its own discretion, depending on changes in the technological environment in which researchers, users, and the Library all function, tools may be replaced.

Yale University

In fact, we don't really know how much the U.F.C. pays its fighters: the company often awards so-called locker-room bonuses, at its own discretion, which go unreported, and executives may also arrange lucrative confidential arrangements with top stars.

The New Yorker

"We do not comment on specific ads except to say that Newsday, like every other media company, including The New York Times, accepts or rejects advertising at its own discretion," said Deidra Parrish Williams, a Newsday spokeswoman.

The New York Times

At the same time, many of these members say Augusta National should be allowed to make membership decisions at its own discretion and timetable, even as they acknowledge that the matter has evolved into a messy public conflict.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

The individual acts at his own discretion but needs the Lord's assent.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The law allows Mr. Trump to grant security clearances at his own discretion.

The Washington Post

"This would be something that the governor could do at his own discretion".

The New York Times

We hope he keeps murdering, at his own discretion, as many murder victims as he wants, except for our own family and friends (or most of them).

The New Yorker

For example, he is able to use the school's washing facilities and do a daily prayer at lunchtime if he wishes, entirely at his own discretion.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience when using this phrase; in informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "as it sees fit" may be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "at its own discretion" when the decision-maker is actually bound by rules, regulations, or pre-existing agreements. This phrase implies freedom from such constraints.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at its own discretion" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that an action is performed according to the subject's own judgment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is frequently used in formal writing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at its own discretion" is a grammatically sound phrase used to convey autonomy in decision-making. Ludwig AI validates that it is correct and appropriate for use in written English. It's commonly found in news, academic, and wiki contexts, indicating a professional register. When using the phrase, ensure that the subject genuinely possesses the authority to make independent judgments. Remember there are several alternatives, like "as it "sees fit"", or "at its sole "judgment"", which can be used to express similar ideas with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at its sole judgment

Emphasizes the exclusivity of the decision-making power, suggesting no external influence.

as it deems appropriate

Focuses on the suitability of the action based on the specific circumstances evaluated.

according to its own choice

Highlights the freedom of selection and preference in the decision-making process.

at its liberty

Indicates the freedom and lack of constraint in making a decision.

using its own prerogative

Stresses the right and privilege to make decisions independently.

as it sees fit

Simple and direct way of saying someone can do something how they want.

at its own election

Highlights the aspect of deliberately choosing a course of action.

subject to its determination

Underlines that the final decision rests solely with the entity in question.

under its authority

Emphasizes the power and legitimacy behind the decision-making process.

by its own authority

The decision or action is based on their own authority or power, without needing external approval or justification.

FAQs

What does "at its own discretion" mean?

The phrase "at its own discretion" means that someone has the power and right to make a decision based on their own judgment and without needing external approval or permission.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "at its own discretion"?

Use "at its own discretion" when you want to emphasize that a decision is being made autonomously, based on the internal assessment and judgment of the decision-maker. It's suitable for formal contexts where independence in decision-making is relevant.

What are some alternatives to "at its own discretion"?

You can use alternatives like "as it "deems appropriate"", "as it "sees fit"", or "at its sole "judgment"" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "at their own discretion" grammatically correct?

Yes, "at their own discretion" is grammatically correct when referring to a plural subject. If referring to a singular entity, use "at its own discretion" or "at his/her own discretion", depending on the context.