make a bold move

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a bold move" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a decision or action that is daring, risky, or unexpected. Example: In order to stand out in the competitive job market, Sarah decided to make a bold move and apply for a position at her dream company, even though she didn't meet all of the qualifications.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Expect Disney to make a bold move in 2012.

The Economist

The New York City Opera could be next to make a bold move.

The New York Times - Arts

Improbable though it seems, Judge Jackson may be hoping that Mr Gates is ready to make a bold move.

The Economist

On Tuesday, two MPs will make a bold move to strengthen the legislation around lap dancing clubs.

The Guardian - Opinion

Having lost out on an elite starting pitcher, and desperate to satisfy frustrated fans, the Mets are eager to make a bold move.

The New York Times

Lesson: "Nothing," said Greenberg, "is off the table for a leader who wants to make a bold move" in the fundamental interest of the country.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

So it stands to reason that it would make a bolder move.

The New York Times

8. (C) The Chairman responded that President Asad needs to make a bolder move and take risks.

The Guardian

Make a bolder move.

WikiHow

Australian Beer Fight SABMiller has made a bold move.

The New York Times

When a program like Florida makes a bold move, others pay attention.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make a bold move" when you want to emphasize the element of risk, courage, or unconventionality involved in a decision or action. It's particularly fitting in situations where the outcome is uncertain but potentially rewarding.

Common error

Avoid using "make a bold move" for trivial decisions. The phrase carries a weight that's inappropriate for everyday choices. Reserve it for situations where the stakes are genuinely high.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a bold move" functions as a verbal phrase. Ludwig examples confirm it's used to describe initiating a significant, often risky, action or decision.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Sports

18%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make a bold move" is a commonly used verbal phrase that signifies taking a decisive and often risky action. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and primarily appears in news and media, sports, and formal business contexts. When writing, it is advisable to use the expression for high-stakes situations. Phrases like "take a daring step" or "adopt an audacious strategy" can be used as alternatives, depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take a daring step

Emphasizes the risk involved; focuses on the initial action.

make a courageous decision

Highlights the bravery required in making the choice.

adopt an audacious strategy

Focuses on the planning aspect, with a hint of recklessness.

implement a radical change

Stresses the transformative nature of the action.

undertake a significant initiative

Implies a larger project or undertaking.

launch a game-changing plan

Suggests the potential for disruption and major impact.

execute a decisive action

Highlights the finality and impact of the undertaking.

demonstrate strategic foresight

Underlines the planning and anticipation involved in the initiative.

display innovative thinking

Shows a level of fresh thinking and creativity.

make an unconventional choice

Signifies straying from the norm.

FAQs

How can I use "make a bold move" in a sentence?

You can use "make a bold move" to describe a daring or risky action, as in: "The company decided to "make a bold move" and invest heavily in research and development."

What phrases are similar to "make a bold move"?

Similar phrases include "take a daring step", "make a courageous decision", or "adopt an audacious strategy". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "make a bold move" or "take a bold move"?

"Make a bold move" is the more common and idiomatic expression. While "take a bold move" isn't grammatically incorrect, it's less frequently used and might sound slightly awkward to native English speakers.

What's the difference between "make a bold move" and "make a big move"?

"Make a big move" is a more general phrase, simply indicating a significant change or action. "Make a bold move", on the other hand, specifically implies that the action involves risk, courage, or unconventionality. A "big move" might not necessarily be bold, and a "bold move" is always a significant one.