decide to do something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decide to do something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a choice or resolution to take a specific action. Example: "After much consideration, I have decided to do something about my health and start exercising regularly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then one day, you decide to do something about it.

The New York Times

You decide to do something even more radical.

The New York Times - Sports

The group decide to do something but there are complications.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

So did I decide to do something less risky?

The Guardian

What made you decide to do something about it?

The Guardian

If you decide to do something, you have to do it well".

The New York Times

When I decide to do something, I want to do it right.

Harvard Business Review

Why did they decide to do something so inflammatory that had no discernible benefit?

The Guardian - Opinion

By the time they actually decide to do something, the twins may be walking.

The New York Times

The beauty of China is that if they decide to do something, they will," said Rahman.

The Guardian

It is so much easier to decide to do something than it is to do it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "decide to do something", ensure the context clearly indicates the action being considered. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "decide to do something" without specifying what the 'something' is. Vague statements can confuse readers. Always provide a clear indication of the intended action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decide to do something" functions as an infinitive phrase, typically serving as the complement of a verb or as an adverbial modifier. It expresses a choice or resolution to perform an action. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating its broad applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "decide to do something" is a versatile and frequently used expression to communicate a resolution or intention to act. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely applicable. The phrase is common in news, business, and general contexts. To enhance clarity in your writing, always specify what the 'something' is. Consider alternatives like "resolve to take action" or "determine to act" for different nuances. By following these guidelines, you can effectively and accurately use "decide to do something" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolve to take action

Replaces "decide" with "resolve" and uses "take action" for a more formal tone.

determine to act

Substitutes "decide" with "determine" and "do something" with "act", indicating a firm decision.

make a choice to proceed

Emphasizes the selection aspect of deciding and replaces "do something" with "proceed", suggesting movement forward.

opt to take initiative

Uses "opt" instead of "decide" and "take initiative" to highlight proactiveness.

come to a decision to act

Adds "come to a decision" to emphasize the process of deciding, while maintaining the core meaning.

take it upon oneself to act

Highlights the personal responsibility aspect of deciding, conveying a sense of initiative.

set out to accomplish

Focuses on the initiation of a task or goal, replacing "decide" with "set out".

purpose to undertake

A more formal and somewhat archaic alternative, emphasizing intention and commitment.

plan to execute

Shifts the focus to the planning and execution stages, implying a structured approach.

aim to perform

Indicates an intention to perform a specific action, with a slightly more formal tone.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "decide to do something" for a more formal tone?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "resolve to take action" or "determine to act".

What are some alternatives to "decide to do something" that emphasize planning?

If you want to emphasize planning, you could use phrases like "plan to execute" or "set out to accomplish".

Is it okay to use "decide to do something" in professional writing?

Yes, "decide to do something" is perfectly acceptable in professional writing, but ensure the action is clearly defined. For example: "I decided to implement a new strategy."

What's the difference between "decide to do something" and "choose to do something"?

While both phrases are similar, "decide to do something" implies a more conclusive decision-making process, whereas "choose to do something" simply indicates a preference or selection.