gutless move

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gutless move" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action that is perceived as cowardly or lacking in courage. Example: "Choosing not to confront the issue directly was a gutless move on his part."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

John Longworth, the director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, said businesses would see it as a "gutless move by a government that promised a clear decision on a new runway by the end of the year".

The Guardian

Nor did it occur because two of The Public Theatre's corporate donors, Bank of America and Delta Air Lines, pulled their sponsorship of the show, a gutless move of appeasement from two businesses, banking and air travel, so well known these days for their dazzling records of customer satisfaction.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

We'll finish our rant about the gutless Matrix here and then move on to attributes, since these, too, exist.

Forbes

Will detractors from hostile media sources bay for FFA to act – branding them gutless if they fail to do so, but knowing full well that any such move to deduct competition points from staff and players for circumstances evidently beyond their control will fundamentally undermine the competitive integrity of the entire 2015-16 A-League season?

The Guardian - Sport

This is gutless leadership".

The New York Times

They're gutless.

The New York Times - Sports

It was gutless".

The New York Times

It's gutless".

The New York Times

But the schedulers are gutless.

The Guardian

I'm a gutless sheep".

The New York Times

"He's a gutless player".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gutless move" when you want to express strong disapproval of an action perceived as cowardly or lacking in moral fortitude. It is suitable for contexts where you want to convey a sense of disappointment or outrage.

Common error

While "gutless move" is understandable in news and media, avoid it in formal reports or academic papers. Opt for more neutral and professional alternatives like "cowardly act" or "unethical decision" to maintain a formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gutless move" functions primarily as a judgmental descriptor, modifying a noun (move, act, decision, etc.) to express disapproval. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correctly used in written English. It emphasizes a lack of courage or moral strength in a particular action.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gutless move" is a judgmental descriptor used to criticize actions perceived as cowardly or lacking moral strength. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While not extremely common, it appears in news and media contexts. When writing, it's best to reserve this phrase for situations where you want to express strong disapproval, but avoid overuse in formal or academic contexts. Consider alternatives like "cowardly act" or "spineless decision" for more formal tone. Keep in mind that the use of "gutless" adds a layer of subjectivity and emotional charge to your writing, so choose it deliberately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cowardly act

Replaces "gutless" with "cowardly", focusing on the lack of courage.

spineless decision

Emphasizes the lack of backbone or resolve in the decision.

weak-willed action

Highlights the lack of determination behind the action.

pusillanimous gesture

A more formal synonym emphasizing timidity and lack of courage.

lily-livered maneuver

An idiomatic alternative suggesting a lack of bravery.

fainthearted step

Focuses on the timidity and apprehension behind the action.

craven behavior

Highlights the cowardly and base nature of the behavior.

chickenhearted deed

An informal alternative emphasizing fear and lack of courage.

timid approach

Emphasizes the hesitance and lack of boldness in the approach.

inglorious act

Highlights the shameful and dishonorable nature of the act.

FAQs

What does "gutless move" mean?

A "gutless move" describes an action or decision that is perceived as cowardly, lacking courage, or showing a deficiency in moral strength. It implies disapproval and disappointment.

What can I say instead of "gutless move"?

You can use alternatives like "cowardly act", "spineless decision", or "weak-willed action" depending on the context.

Is "gutless move" appropriate for formal writing?

While understandable, "gutless move" is generally not suitable for formal writing. It's better to use more neutral and professional alternatives like "cowardly act" or "unethical decision".

How can I use "gutless move" in a sentence?

You can use "gutless move" to criticize a decision or action, for example: "The company's decision to lay off employees right before the holidays was seen as a "cowardly act"/"gutless move" by many."