critical decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "critical decision" is grammatically correct and appropriate to use in written English.
It can be used to describe a decision that is extremely important or has significant consequences. Example: Making a critical decision without fully understanding the potential risks can lead to disastrous outcomes.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

First, though, the administration had to make a critical decision.

The New York Times

Seton Hall's muddled administration now faces a critical decision.

The New York Times - Sports

Jeremy Paxman: I want to take you back to the critical decision that you made.

The Guardian

"It's a critical decision for anyone who is going to build.

The New York Times

The masters insisted that such a critical decision should be left to the experts.

The New York Times

It's a critical decision so you have to make the ref's mind up.

The Guardian - Sport

But while Griffin rehabilitates the injury, the Redskins will also face a critical decision.

The New York Times - Sports

No one consulted his wife or family in this critical decision - as so often happens".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

"Marissa continues to lead the company and is involved in all critical decision-making," she said.

The New York Times

Health care: Medical professionals can use tablets to collaborate on patient care and speed critical decision-making.

TechCrunch

This will adversely impact critical decision-making.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "critical decision", clearly articulate the factors that make the decision important and the potential consequences of different choices.

Common error

Avoid using "critical decision" for choices that are routine or have minimal impact. Reserve this phrase for situations where the outcome significantly affects objectives or outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "critical decision" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "critical" modifies the noun "decision". Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness, appearing in diverse contexts to denote a pivotal choice.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "critical decision" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a choice with significant consequences. As Ludwig AI confirms, its versatility allows for usage across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and formal business settings. When using the phrase "critical decision", ensure you convey the importance and potential implications of the decision. Related phrases, like "vital choice" or "crucial judgment", can offer nuanced alternatives, but remember that a "critical decision" has more far-reaching impact than a plain "important decision".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vital choice

Emphasizes the importance of the selection, highlighting its potential impact on success or survival. It is similar, but focuses on selection rather than the decision-making process.

crucial judgment

Stresses the gravity and potential consequences of the evaluation or assessment made. It changes the focus from the act of deciding to the quality of the evaluation.

key determination

Focuses on the act of finding out or establishing something important which will influence subsequent actions. It shifts the emphasis to establishing a fact or outcome.

pivotal resolution

Highlights the turning point nature of the decision and its potential to alter the course of events. The focus is shifted towards resolving an issue with significant consequences.

significant call

Emphasizes the importance of the choice made, indicating it has substantial weight or impact. Shifts from a detailed decision to a general important choice.

momentous conclusion

Stresses the historical and lasting impact of the decision, implying it will be remembered for a long time. Conveys a sense of weight and long-term significance.

strategic assessment

Emphasizes that the evaluation is part of a broader plan to achieve a long-term goal. It highlights the forward-thinking nature of the decision-making.

impactful decision

Highlights the significance of the choice based on its potential effects. Focuses on the consequences of the decision more than the process itself.

fundamental choice

Emphasizes the foundational nature of the selection, suggesting it underpins later decisions. It denotes a primary decision on which others will rely.

defining moment

Shifts the emphasis from the decision itself to the point in time when the decision is made, suggesting it reveals character or determines future direction.

FAQs

How can I use "critical decision" in a sentence?

You can use "critical decision" to describe a choice with significant consequences, such as: "The company faced a "critical decision" regarding its future investments." or "Choosing the right treatment option was a "critical decision" for the patient's recovery."

What are some alternatives to "critical decision"?

Alternatives include "vital choice", "crucial judgment", "key determination", or "pivotal resolution", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "important decision" the same as "critical decision"?

While both terms refer to decisions of consequence, "critical decision" implies a higher degree of importance and potential impact than just an "important decision". A "critical decision" often has far-reaching and potentially irreversible effects.

What makes a decision "critical"?

A decision is considered "critical" when it has a significant impact on outcomes, involves high stakes, and requires careful consideration due to potential risks or irreversible consequences. The degree of careful thought and evaluation of potential outcomes are often a measure of its criticality.