make sound judgments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make sound judgments" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the ability to make wise or reasonable decisions based on careful consideration of information or circumstances. Example: "In order to be an effective leader, one must be able to make sound judgments that benefit the team and the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

But to merge friendship with a lawyer-client relationship can be complicated, because lawyers must maintain a professional distance from clients in order to make sound judgments and deliver candid advice.

The New York Times

That, said Augusta Kappner, the president of the Bank Street College of Education in Manhattan, bodes ill for the future as employment and even everyday life demand the ability to sort through information and make sound judgments.

The New York Times

There are growing expectations that children's professionals not only ensure safe environments for young people, but also make sound judgments where young people may be at risk from the impact of technologies.

The Guardian

To deflect the charge of elitism, levelled by many teachers, the categories have proliferated to include the capacity to "make sound judgments", to show "great sensitivity or empathy" or to be "fascinated by a particular subject".A specialist school is a bog-standard comprehensive that has jumped through hoops to get extra government money.

The Economist

This type of analysis also helps decision makers make sound judgments.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

These pragmatic metrics carry different assumptions and limitations that must be understood in order to make sound judgments about the consequences of environmental exposure.

Encyclopedia of Ecology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

But Mr. Klein made sound judgments in subsequent cases, showing that mainstream antitrust principles can be effectively applied to modern markets.

The New York Times

In my last post, I argued that common sense was vastly over-rated as a tool for making sound judgments, and that we need to engage in "reasoned sense" that includes both extensive direct experience and critical thinking.

Huffington Post

The surety who is experienced in this field is in a position to make sounder judgment about the liability of the various bidders than anyone else and backs up its judgment with a financial guarantee.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The utility principle might seem to call for an ability to make sound ethical judgments in complex situations but, again, if we are sceptical about people's ability to judge well, this does not entail (and seems to deny) that there is a better way of judging.

SEP

TMZ reports the parents must prove that Amanda cannot provide for her own physical health; that she cannot make sound financial judgments; that they can offer her a stable home; and that there are no alternatives other than conservatorship.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Prioritize clarity and precision in your writing by providing explicit examples or details to support how "make sound judgments" is applied in specific situations.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "common sense" automatically leads to "make sound judgments". Common sense can be subjective and may lack the necessary expertise or information for informed decision-making.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make sound judgments" functions as a verbal phrase that describes the action of forming well-reasoned and wise decisions. As noted by Ludwig, it's a grammatically correct and commonly used expression, indicating its acceptance in standard English. The examples provided showcase its use in various contexts where careful evaluation and decision-making are required.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make sound judgments" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that emphasizes the importance of thoughtful and informed decision-making. As highlighted by Ludwig, it is frequently found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. To enhance your writing, ensure you provide sufficient context when using the phrase and avoid over-reliance on "common sense" as the sole basis for judgment. By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate the need for careful evaluation and wise decision-making in various scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise good judgment

Focuses on the act of using existing judgment skills rather than the process of forming them.

reach judicious decisions

Highlights the wisdom and careful consideration involved in the decision-making process.

arrive at informed conclusions

Emphasizes the information-gathering aspect leading to a decision.

demonstrate discernment

Emphasizes the ability to perceive subtle differences and make appropriate choices.

formulate reasonable opinions

Highlights the creation of opinions that are logical and justifiable.

show good sense

Implies possessing a natural aptitude for making correct judgments.

draw rational inferences

Stresses the logical reasoning process behind reaching a conclusion.

apply critical thinking

Focuses on the analytical process used to evaluate information and form judgments.

make prudent choices

Focuses on the careful and wise selection of options.

develop insightful perspectives

Highlights the gaining of a deeper understanding that informs decision-making.

FAQs

How can I improve my ability to "make sound judgments"?

Improving your ability to "make sound judgments" involves gaining experience, seeking diverse perspectives, and critically evaluating information before reaching a conclusion. Continuous learning and reflection are also key.

What does it mean to "make sound judgments" in a professional setting?

In a professional context, to "make sound judgments" means to make reasoned and responsible decisions that align with the organization's goals and ethical standards, considering all available information and potential consequences.

Which is more appropriate: "make sound judgments" or "make decisions"?

"Make decisions" is a broader term, while "make sound judgments" implies a more thoughtful and reasoned approach. Use "make sound judgments" when you want to emphasize the quality and wisdom of the decision-making process.

What are some alternative phrases for "make sound judgments"?

You can use alternatives like "exercise good judgment", "arrive at informed conclusions", or "make prudent choices" depending on the context.