postpone decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "postpone decision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that a decision will be delayed or deferred to a later time. Example: "After much discussion, we decided to postpone decision on the project until next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Condor and Raptor Work: 1. Postpone decision on filling office of the chair, if the current decision includes C.F.O.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"It is not feasible to postpone decision-making, because we will lose the chance for reform," he added, in a public admonition that not long ago would have been unthinkable from such an establishment figure.

The New York Times

The agent said China's decision to devalue its currency had caused some buyers to postpone decision-making on property until there was a greater sense of certainty, but had also persuaded Chinese buyers to step up their interest in "safe haven" property markets.

The Guardian - Money

The war, he said, has been used as an excuse to postpone decisions.

The New York Times

The groups are asking the administration to postpone decisions on green card applications from gay couples until the court rules.

The New York Times

"The insurance companies sometimes, but not always, postpone decisions to cover them during their third trimester, especially if there are any issues".

The New York Times

Dr. Kamer said the Sept. 11 attacks and subsequent events would cause many buyers to postpone decisions about purchasing because of uncertainties about world conditions and their jobs.

The New York Times

Also whether from caution or a lack of manpower, it has also become common for the agency simply to postpone decisions by 90 days.

The New York Times

Calendars shouldn't postpone decisions: If a decision is urgent, gather the decision-makers right away.

TechCrunch

He adds: "She usually does not like to postpone decisions and never accepts unfinished solutions".

BBC

In addition, applications based on SOA need to function effectively in a dynamic environment where it is necessary to postpone decisions until runtime.

Journal of Software Engineering Research and Development

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the formality of the situation. While "postpone decision" is generally acceptable, "defer the decision" may be more appropriate in formal settings.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that you will "postpone decision" without providing any rationale. This can lead to frustration and uncertainty. Always briefly explain why the decision is being delayed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "postpone decision" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun, acting as the predicate of a sentence. It typically indicates the action of delaying a choice or judgment. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "postpone decision" is a common and grammatically sound way to indicate the delay of a decision. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and formal business settings. While suitable for most situations, more formal alternatives like "defer the decision" may be preferred in certain contexts. To ensure clarity, it's best practice to provide a reason for the postponement. Common errors include vagueness in the reason for postponement, which can be easily addressed by providing a brief explanation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delay making a decision

Emphasizes the act of making the decision being delayed, rather than the decision itself.

defer the decision

A more formal way of saying to delay the decision.

put off the decision

A less formal way to say delay the decision.

hold off on deciding

Highlights the act of waiting before deciding.

suspend the decision

Suggests a temporary halt to the decision-making process.

table the decision

Often used in formal settings to mean postpone indefinitely or to a later date.

shelve the decision

Implies putting the decision aside, possibly indefinitely.

adjourn the decision

Refers to postponing the decision to another time, often in a meeting context.

delay the resolution

Focuses on delaying the resolution or outcome of the decision.

extend the deliberation

Emphasizes prolonging the process of considering the decision.

FAQs

How can I use "postpone decision" in a sentence?

You can use "postpone decision" to indicate that a decision will be delayed or deferred to a later time. For example, "After much discussion, we decided to "postpone decision" on the project until next week."

What's a more formal alternative to "postpone decision"?

A more formal alternative is to "defer the decision". This phrase is often used in business or academic contexts.

Is it better to say "delay decision" or "postpone decision"?

Both "delay decision" and "postpone decision" are acceptable. "Postpone" often suggests a more deliberate and planned delay, while "delay" can imply a less controlled or intended delay.

What does it mean to "table a decision"?

To "table a decision" means to postpone it indefinitely or to a later, unspecified date. It is often used in formal meetings.