have decided not to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have decided not to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a choice or resolution to refrain from doing something. Example: "After careful consideration, we have decided not to proceed with the project at this time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They have decided not to panic.

The New York Times - Sports

Some say they have decided not to vote.

The New York Times

So the gentrifiers have decided not to think about it.

The New York Times

"Afghans have decided not to hear a single gunshot.

The New York Times

Prosecutors have decided not to seek a third trial.

The Guardian - Opinion

He didn't, and England have decided not to review.

The Guardian - Sport

And again, they have decided not to change it.

The Guardian - Sport

But they have decided not to meet on Saturday.

The New York Times

A few sites have decided not to identify the seller.

The New York Times

Nut? Transport for London have decided not to use their discretion in this case.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But city officials have decided not to provide helmets directly with the rented bikes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "have decided not to" when clearly stating a decision to avoid a specific action. It provides clarity and directness in communication.

Common error

Avoid using "have decided not to" repeatedly in long or complex sentences. Break down the sentence for better readability. For example, instead of "They have decided not to proceed with the plan, and therefore have decided not to allocate further resources", try "They have decided against proceeding with the plan and will not allocate further resources."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have decided not to" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a conscious decision to avoid a specific action or course. As supported by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "have decided not to" is a grammatically correct and very common way to express a deliberate choice to refrain from a specific action. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It's frequently used in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. While highly versatile, it's advisable to avoid overuse in overly complex sentences for improved readability. Consider synonyms like "opted against" or "chose not to" for variety. The phrase is best employed when communicating a clear, conscious decision to avoid something, ensuring clarity and directness in communication across various registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chose not to

A simple and direct way of saying a decision was made to avoid a certain action. Focuses on the selection process.

opted against

Implies a deliberate choice not to do something, often after considering alternatives. This focuses more on the act of choosing.

resolved not to

Suggests a firm decision or determination not to do something. Emphasizes the strength of the decision.

declined to

Formal way of saying someone refused or chose not to do something, often an offer or invitation. Implies a polite refusal.

refrained from

Indicates restraint and conscious avoidance of an action. Suggests a deliberate holding back.

reconsidered and rejected

Highlights the process of thinking again about something and then deciding against it. Emphasizes the renewed evaluation.

passed on

Suggests a decision not to take an opportunity or option. More informal than "declined to".

forgone

Implies giving up or doing without something. A more formal or literary alternative.

abandoned the idea of

Indicates that a plan or intention was considered but later rejected. Emphasizes the termination of an idea.

backed away from

Suggests a retreat from a previous commitment or plan. Implies a sense of caution or reconsideration.

FAQs

How can I use "have decided not to" in a sentence?

The phrase "have decided not to" is used to express a deliberate choice to refrain from a particular action. For example, "The company "have decided not to" launch the new product this year".

What are some alternatives to "have decided not to"?

Alternatives include "chose not to", "opted against", or "declined to". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "have decided not to" or "decided not to"?

"Have decided not to" emphasizes the decision-making process and the present relevance of the decision. "Decided not to" is simpler and often sufficient, but lacks the emphasis on the present state of the decision. Both are grammatically correct and acceptable.

What's the difference between "have decided not to" and "have chosen not to"?

While similar, "have decided not to" focuses more on the outcome of a deliberation, whereas "have chosen not to" highlights the act of selecting one option over others. The phrase "have chosen not to" usually implies multiple options were available.