last minute decision

USAGE SUMMARY

'last minute decision' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a choice that is made quickly and with little consideration for the consequences. For example: "I ended up making a last minute decision and flying to Rome for the weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

The former Foreign Secretary, Malcolm Rifkind, said that the last minute decision was "very strange".

Independent

His trip to Malta became dominated by a last minute decision to meet in private with victims of clerical abuse.

Independent

"It was a last minute decision,'' said Candi Treanor, who was among those aboard the doomed boat.

The New York Times

Many eclipse watchers had made the last minute decision to head for Torbay, where forecasts had been better.

The Guardian

The delay,announced by Rovio today, is the result of a last minute decision to add "proper support for multitasking".

TechCrunch

It was a last minute decision, but Somerstein had been attentively following the events in Selma.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Her appearance here was a last-minute decision because she raced in Japan last weekend and returned home only Wednesday.

The New York Times - Sports

It's not a last-minute decision".

Independent

It was a random, last-minute decision to move here.

The Telegraph

His fiery performance at Davos was a last-minute decision.

The New York Times

It seems to have been a last-minute decision.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "last minute decision", ensure the context clearly indicates the limited time available for making the choice, emphasizing the urgency or lack of planning involved.

Common error

Avoid relying on "last minute decision" too frequently in your writing. It can sometimes suggest poor planning or lack of foresight. Consider using alternative phrases like "eleventh-hour choice" or "spur-of-the-moment call" to add variety and nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "last minute decision" functions as a noun phrase, where "last minute" acts as a compound adjective modifying the noun "decision". Ludwig's examples show it's used to describe a choice made close to a deadline or event.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

10%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "last minute decision" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe a choice made shortly before a deadline or event. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is correct and usable in written English. While not overly formal, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for various contexts, most frequently appearing in news and media. For variety, consider using alternatives like "eleventh-hour choice" or "spur-of-the-moment call". Remember to ensure that the context clarifies the urgency or lack of planning when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

eleventh-hour choice

Emphasizes the very latest point at which the decision is made.

on-the-spot decision

Highlights that the decision was made immediately at the location or time of need.

spur-of-the-moment call

Highlights the impulsive and unplanned nature of the decision.

late call

A more concise way to express a decision made at the last possible time.

sudden determination

Focuses on the unexpected and abrupt nature of the decision to act.

snap verdict

Suggests a swift and immediate decision, often without deep analysis.

hasty resolution

Implies the decision was made quickly, potentially without thorough consideration.

impromptu judgement

Stresses the unplanned and immediate aspect of the decision.

unforeseen determination

Underlines the unexpected nature of the decision.

instant conclusion

Emphasizes the immediacy and rapidity with which the decision was reached.

FAQs

How can I use "last minute decision" in a sentence?

You can use "last minute decision" to describe a choice made shortly before a deadline or event. For example, "I made a "last minute decision" to attend the concert".

What are some alternatives to "last minute decision"?

Alternatives include "eleventh-hour choice", "spur-of-the-moment call", or "hasty resolution", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "last minute decision" formal or informal?

"Last minute decision" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives might be preferred in some situations.

What does it imply when someone makes a "last minute decision"?

It typically implies a lack of prior planning or an unexpected change of circumstances that necessitates a quick and possibly rushed choice.