exercise judgement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exercise judgement" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea of making a decision based on what you think is right. For example, "When dealing with difficult customer service issues, it's important to exercise judgement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

But is it better that ministers subcontract decisions to unaccountable quangos, or that they exercise judgement?

Independent

No one is pre-supposing innocence or guilt in Terry's case, instead it is a simple plea for the FA to exercise judgement, a very difficult aspect of leadership that does not always necessarily tally with precedents and certainly will not meet with universal acclaim.

Independent

Center Parcs said it was up to parents to exercise judgement regarding their children.

BBC

He needs to exercise judgement whether he's in this country or not.

BBC

Due to the volume of content received, human users must typically skim their timeline of received content and exercise judgement in selecting items for consumption, necessitating a selection process based on heuristics and content meta-data.

International Journal of Human-Computer Studies

The imaging geometry can have a dramatic effect on glossy surfaces, and for best results it is essential to have some flexibility in the positioning of the light source(s) and object relative to the camera, thereby enabling the operator to exercise judgement in the setup.

Heritage Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

As (Atkinson et al. 2010) point out, "in combining disparate sets of information, the authors are not carrying out a mechanical operation, but exercising judgement about the strengths and weaknesses of different sources.

Latin American Economic Review

It is relied upon by those who prefer the comforting certainties of pseudo-science to the responsibility of exercising judgement and weighing the evidence in a particular case".

Vice

Establishing that businesses have ceased functioning in the absence of obvious signs such as companies losing their status as federally incorporated businesses in the end involved exercising judgement.

Globalization and Health

Dr Mark Porter, Chair of British Medical Association Council, said: "The mandate reflects the BMA's opinion that the NHS Commissioning Board (NHSCB) needs flexibility to exercise its judgement on how to deliver this vision.

Independent

We are in the trusted position of being able to exercise our judgement and discretion.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exercise judgement", ensure the context clearly indicates the area in which judgement is being applied. For example, "exercise clinical judgement" or "exercise professional judgement" provides more specific meaning.

Common error

While "exercise judgement" is acceptable, overuse can make writing sound stilted. Vary your language by using synonyms like "use discretion" or "make a considered decision" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exercise judgement" functions as a verb phrase where "exercise" acts as a transitive verb taking "judgement" as its direct object. It describes the act of applying one's ability to make considered decisions. Ludwig's examples confirm its usage across various domains.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exercise judgement" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies the act of making considered decisions. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts, including News & Media and Science. While generally neutral, writers should aim to use it with precision, specifying the context in which judgement is applied (e.g., clinical or professional). For variety and to avoid overuse, consider alternatives such as "use discretion" or "make a considered decision". Understanding these nuances ensures effective communication and skillful application of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a considered decision

Replaces "exercise judgement" with a more general phrase about decision-making.

use discretion

Focuses on the aspect of careful and responsible decision-making.

apply critical thinking

Emphasizes the analytical aspect of judgement.

show good sense

Highlights the wisdom and rationality involved in judgement.

demonstrate discernment

Focuses on the ability to distinguish between different options.

make a sound assessment

Emphasizes the evaluation aspect of judgment.

employ judiciousness

Highlights the quality of being prudent and wise in judgement.

weigh the evidence

Focuses on the process of evaluating information before making a decision.

reach a reasoned conclusion

Emphasizes the logical aspect of judgement.

form an opinion

Provides a general alternative, applicable when a formal decision isn't necessary.

FAQs

How can I use "exercise judgement" in a sentence?

You can use "exercise judgement" to indicate that someone is using their ability to make considered decisions. For example: "It's important to "exercise judgement" when investing money."

What is a more formal alternative to "exercise judgement"?

In more formal contexts, you might use phrases like "apply critical thinking" or "demonstrate discernment" instead of "exercise judgement".

Which is the correct spelling, "exercise judgement" or "exercise judgment"?

"Exercise judgement" and "exercise judgment" are both correct. "Judgement" is more common in British English, while "judgment" is preferred in American English.

What does it mean to "exercise professional judgement"?

To "exercise professional judgement" means to use your knowledge, skills, and experience to make informed decisions in a professional context. It suggests a reliance on expertise rather than simply following rules or guidelines.