normal course of action

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "normal course of action" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a routine, standard, or expected way of behaving or doing something. For example, "In this type of situation, our normal course of action is to call the police."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Moss said the analysis is a normal course of action for media companies.

The New York Times

Joe Torre, the Yankees' manager, characterized tonight's meeting as a normal course of action in spring training, but he did not rule out the possibility the Yankees might make a significant move.

The New York Times - Sports

The analysis comes close to giving an implicit approval to the Bush administration's furious pursuit of Saddam Hussein as a "perfectly normal" course of action, while relegating Europeans to permanent timidity in a world teeming with rogue bears.

The New York Times - Books

Johnson and Kwak argue, as they have many times before, that given the current state of the banking system, the normal course of action, and the one that "is usually the approach suggested by the U.S.," would be to take over the banks.

The New Yorker

"In the normal course of action, we would have followed him forever and ever and we might have got the answer that he was nothing and stopped following him or we could have determined there was something there and followed him until we figured out who and what else was involved," the official said.

The New York Times

After regulators in San Francisco uncovered fraudulent sales and other improprieties at the institution, Mr. Dochow worked in Washington to avoid the issuance of a cease-and-desist order, the normal course of action in such a case, according to records handed over to Congress.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

In a statement last Wednesday, a day after Xinhua said Wang was being held, Caijing said it had not been given a reason for his detention, adding it would support his actions within the normal course of reporting.

Huffington Post

The spokesperson said the email set out a course of action "to support the department to ensure that its normal course of work is not affected by the demands of the Princess of Wales Hospital investigation".

BBC

Unlike viral loops, which are actions users take in the normal course of using a product to invite new members, viral oops rely on the user 'effing-up.

TechCrunch

The odd thing is that Sessions's brave actions, even in the telling of his supporters, seemed mostly to involve not obstructing the normal course of justice.

The New Yorker

It contains sufficient medication for one normal course of therapy.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "normal course of action" when you want to emphasize that a particular action is routine, expected, or follows established protocols. This is especially useful in business, legal, or procedural contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "normal course of action" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "usual way" or "typical approach" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "normal course of action" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes a standard or routine procedure. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "normal course of action" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a routine or expected procedure. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and our analysis reveals that it is most commonly found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. While it is a valid phrase, consider if a more straightforward alternative like "standard procedure" or "typical approach" might be more appropriate for your context. Be aware of the potential to overuse it in informal settings. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively incorporate "normal course of action" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

standard procedure

Refers to an established and consistent method, implying a formalized routine.

typical approach

Emphasizes the common or usual method, highlighting frequency over formality.

usual practice

Focuses on customary behavior or established habit within a specific context.

common practice

Highlights how frequently something is done, suggesting widespread acceptance.

routine operation

Implies a regular and predictable sequence of activities without deviations.

conventional method

Stresses adherence to traditional or widely accepted ways of doing things.

established process

Focuses on a method that is well-recognized and has been in place for some time.

customary procedure

Highlights actions that follow long-standing customs or traditions.

accepted practice

Emphasizes widespread approval and agreement on a particular method.

expected behavior

Shifts the focus to what is anticipated or predicted in a given situation.

FAQs

How can I use "normal course of action" in a sentence?

You can use "normal course of action" to describe a routine or expected procedure. For instance, "The "normal course of action" in this situation is to notify the supervisor immediately."

What are some alternatives to "normal course of action"?

Alternatives include "standard procedure", "typical approach", or "usual practice". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "normal course of action"?

It's appropriate in formal or professional settings when describing established processes or expected behaviors. It's less suitable for casual conversations.

What's the difference between "normal course of action" and "best course of action"?

"Normal course of action" refers to a routine or standard procedure, while "best course of action" implies the most effective or optimal choice among available options.