devise a plan of action

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence 'devise a plan of action' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used when suggesting that someone should create a strategy to achieve a goal. For example, "We need to devise a plan of action if we want to increase sales in the next quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Casing the joint gives you a chance to assess the risks involved, and to devise a plan of action.

Vice

Devise a plan of action.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Billing at cost, he quickly devised a plan of action and even promised the bring the damaged and water-stained altar from the original synagogue: For Rabbi Rubinstein, the plan solved not only a practical problem but a theological one.

The New Yorker

By early afternoon, however, hospital administrators and city health officials had devised a plan of action: all of the hospital's roughly 600 employees would be tested and given antibiotics.

The New York Times

I devised a plan of attack.

Huffington Post

They want the Obama administration or its successor to devise a new plan of action for the top terror suspect in US custody.

The Guardian

This session offers the perfect moment to reflect on the gains we've made as well as devise a solid plan of action for continuing to work together globally to save and improve lives.

Huffington Post

Designing a Plan of Action.

Science Magazine

A plan of action.

Los Angeles Times

Create a plan of action.

Huffington Post

Have a plan of action.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "devise a plan of action", ensure that the context clearly defines the goal or problem that the plan addresses. This provides clarity and purpose to the devised plan.

Common error

Avoid creating overly complex plans when you "devise a plan of action". A simple, actionable plan is often more effective than a convoluted one. Focus on clear steps and measurable outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devise a plan of action" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating the initiation of a strategic course to achieve a particular objective. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, emphasizing the active planning process.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "devise a plan of action" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that suggests creating a strategy to achieve a specific objective. As highlighted by Ludwig, this phrase is employed across diverse contexts, ranging from news and media to formal business settings. Related phrases include "formulate a strategy" and "establish a course of action". When using this phrase, prioritize clarity, focus on actionable steps, and avoid overcomplicating the plan. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, solidifying its place as a valuable tool for strategic communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish a course of action

Focuses on defining a sequence of steps to achieve a goal.

formulate a strategy

Focuses on the creation of a strategy without explicitly mentioning the 'action' component.

design a strategy

Emphasizes the planning and structural aspect of creating a strategy.

develop an approach

Emphasizes the creation of a general method or way of dealing with something.

craft a strategy

Suggests a more careful and skillful creation of a strategy.

construct a plan

Suggests building or putting together a plan in a systematic way.

create a roadmap

Implies creating a detailed plan to reach a specific goal.

map out a plan

Highlights the detailed planning and visualization of a plan.

forge a path forward

Emphasizes creating a way to progress despite challenges.

concoct a scheme

Implies inventing a clever or deceitful plan, often in secret.

FAQs

How can I use "devise a plan of action" in a sentence?

You can use "devise a plan of action" to suggest the creation of a strategy to achieve a specific goal. For instance, "The team needs to devise a plan of action to improve customer satisfaction".

What are some alternatives to "devise a plan of action"?

Alternatives include "formulate a strategy", "develop an approach", or "establish a course of action".

Is "devise a plan of action" formal or informal?

"Devise a plan of action" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language and the audience. It's generally considered neutral and appropriate for professional communication.

What's the difference between "devise a plan" and "devise a plan of action"?

"Devise a plan" is a more general term, while "devise a plan of action" specifically emphasizes that the plan includes concrete steps to be taken. The latter is more focused on implementation.