fixed sentences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fixed sentences" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to sentences that are established, unchanging, or standardized in a particular context, such as language learning or legal documents. Example: "In language classes, students often practice fixed sentences to improve their speaking skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

As a result, many of those thought likely to be unfit to stand trial or NGRI were instead given fixed sentences and released at fixed times irrespective of risk.

BMC Psychiatry

Do you know, the last Labour Government actually went so far as to enshrine in law the automatic release for all prisoners given fixed sentences?

The Guardian

Justice Alito, in a separate dissent that seemed directed to sentencing judges, said the majority's opinion did nothing to affect even quite long fixed sentences.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, Professor Petersilia said, "When we adopted fixed sentences, there is no longer any incentive for prisoners to reform, just as there is no way to judge whether their behavior has improved".

The New York Times

The decision seemed to endorse both traditional sentencing schemes that leave sentences entirely up to judges so long as they do not exceed statutory maximums and schemes that designate fixed sentences for given crimes.

The New York Times

He thought the old system, whereby the Lord Chancellor tapped you on the shoulder and invited you to apply, had worked pretty well.He also disliked fixed sentences, insisting that judges should be able to exercise flexibility and discretion especially in murder cases, where he campaigned against the mandatory life term.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Patients may however be discharged from any point in the recovery pathway if appropriate or if they come to the end of a fixed sentence.

BMC Psychiatry

Federal district judges would have the legal discretion to fix sentences, within the range now fixed by statutes -- the statutes that were largely superseded by the guidelines.

The New York Times

The judge said that if he had imposed fixed term sentences on the pair, rather than indeterminate sentences for public protection, Saddique would have been jailed for 22 years and Liaqat for 16 years.

Independent

For reducing information and interviewer bias, we had set a fixed pictorial scenario, fixed scenario sentence, and pictures of safety seats in the questionnaire.

BMC Public Health

(He is prone to statements like, "I have fixed more sentences than most people have read in their lives," as he told The Paris Review, for example).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing legal matters, ensure that using "fixed sentences" accurately reflects the legal framework you are describing. It implies a lack of judicial discretion in sentencing.

Common error

Avoid using "fixed sentences" when you mean 'typical sentences' or 'usual sentences'. "Fixed sentences" implies a legally or structurally unchangeable sentence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fixed sentences" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often within legal or academic contexts. It refers to a sentencing system where the length of imprisonment is predetermined and not subject to judicial discretion. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

6%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fixed sentences" refers to a legal term denoting predetermined and inflexible prison terms, frequently discussed within legal, academic, and journalistic contexts. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and best suited for formal discussions regarding the justice system. When a less technical term is required, alternatives such as "determinate sentences", or "set sentences" could be more appropriate. While the expression is grammatically sound, ensure that it accurately reflects the intended meaning, particularly in legal contexts, to avoid confusion with more flexible sentencing approaches.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

determinate sentences

Emphasizes the predetermined nature of the sentence length.

mandatory sentences

Highlights the obligatory aspect of the sentence, often set by law.

set sentences

Focuses on the established or pre-arranged characteristic of the sentences.

prescribed sentences

Indicates that the sentences are officially recommended or required.

standard sentences

Implies that the sentences follow a common or accepted pattern.

unchanging sentences

Highlights the immutable nature of the sentences once they are established.

inflexible sentences

Emphasizes the lack of adaptability or modification allowed in the sentences.

predetermined sentences

Focuses on the aspect that sentences are decided in advance.

specified sentences

Indicates that the details of the sentences are clearly stated and defined.

statutory sentences

Connects the sentences directly to legal statutes and regulations.

FAQs

How are "fixed sentences" different from indeterminate sentences?

"Fixed sentences" specify a precise length of imprisonment, whereas indeterminate sentences involve a range, with the exact release date determined by parole boards.

What are the advantages of using "fixed sentences" in law?

Proponents argue that "fixed sentences" promote consistency and transparency in the justice system, reducing disparities in sentencing.

What are some criticisms of "fixed sentences"?

Critics argue that "fixed sentences" can be overly rigid, failing to account for individual circumstances and potentially leading to unjust outcomes.

What's an alternative to "fixed sentences" when referring to standard grammatical structures?

If you're not discussing legal matters, alternatives like "set phrases" or "standard sentences" may be more appropriate when describing grammatical structures.