prompt and decisive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prompt and decisive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or responses that are quick and firm, often in a context where timely decision-making is important. Example: "The manager's prompt and decisive response to the crisis helped stabilize the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"The company's management has taken prompt and decisive action to address reports of sexual harassment and workplace issues at Fox News," a representative said in a statement.

Los Angeles Times

As recently as Friday, in newspaper advertisements, Merck has argued that it took "prompt and decisive action" as soon as it knew that Vioxx was dangerous.

The New York Times

The company says it has taken prompt and decisive action following the revelations, which were first reported by the ABC's Background Briefing program.

The Guardian

"The President shared our views on the situation and the lessons that we had learned on the need for prompt and decisive steps," said Gene Sperling, the White House's economic policy adviser.

The New York Times

The ICC's anti-corruption and security unit is also investigating the claims and Lorgat said "prompt and decisive action" would be taken against anyone who sought to harm the game's integrity.

Independent

"The situation requires prompt and decisive action".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Meetings are short, brisk and decisive.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

On Wednesday, Carlos Brito, the Anheuser-Busch chief executive, said the brewer would be "prompt, proactive and decisive" in addressing concerns by regulators.

The New York Times

It is quick and decisive.

The New York Times - Sports

The response was quick and decisive.

Harvard Business Review

Celtic's reply was immediate and decisive.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "prompt and decisive", ensure that the context clearly demonstrates both the speed and the finality of the action being described. For instance, describe not just that action was taken, but also the immediate impact or resolution that followed.

Common error

Avoid using "prompt and decisive" in passive voice constructions, as it can weaken the impact. Instead of saying "Action was taken promptly and decisively", opt for "The team acted promptly and decisively", which is more direct and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prompt and decisive" functions as a compound adjective, modifying a noun (often "action", "steps", or "measures"). It emphasizes both the speed and the conclusiveness of the action taken. Ludwig confirms its usability and correctness in describing firm and quick actions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "prompt and decisive" is a commonly used and grammatically correct compound adjective that describes actions taken quickly and with determination. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase often appears in news and media contexts, as well as in formal business communication. It's crucial to consider the specific context when using this phrase to ensure it accurately reflects both the timeliness and the conclusiveness of the action being described. While there are numerous alternatives, such as "swift and resolute" or "quick and determined", the choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

swift and resolute

Replaces "prompt" with "swift" and "decisive" with "resolute", both emphasizing speed and determination but "resolute" is more focused on determination.

quick and determined

Substitutes "prompt" with "quick" and "decisive" with "determined", highlighting speed and a firm decision.

immediate and firm

Uses "immediate" instead of "prompt" and "firm" instead of "decisive", focusing on immediacy and strength.

expeditious and conclusive

Replaces "prompt" with "expeditious" and "decisive" with "conclusive", suggesting efficiency and a definitive end.

rapid and unwavering

Substitutes "prompt" with "rapid" and "decisive" with "unwavering", emphasizing speed and steadfastness.

timely and resolute

Uses "timely" instead of "prompt" and "resolute" instead of "decisive", highlighting appropriateness of timing and determination.

efficient and definitive

Replaces "prompt" with "efficient" and "decisive" with "definitive", focusing on effective action and clarity of decision.

vigorous and determined

Substitutes "prompt" with "vigorous" and "decisive" with "determined", emphasizing energy and a firm decision.

sharp and conclusive

Uses "sharp" instead of "prompt" and "conclusive" instead of "decisive", suggesting keenness and a definitive end.

forthwith and steadfast

Replaces "prompt" with "forthwith" and "decisive" with "steadfast", focusing on immediacy and reliability.

FAQs

How can I use "prompt and decisive" in a sentence?

Use "prompt and decisive" to describe actions that are both quick and conclusive. For example, "The company took "prompt and decisive action" to address the security breach."

What are some alternatives to using "prompt and decisive"?

Alternatives include "swift and resolute", "quick and determined", or "immediate and firm", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to use both "prompt" and "decisive"?

While both words relate to effective action, "prompt" emphasizes the speed of the action, while "decisive" highlights its conclusiveness. Using them together reinforces the idea of action that is both timely and effective in resolving an issue.

What's the difference between "prompt and decisive" and "swift and effective"?

"Prompt and decisive" emphasizes speed and finality in decision-making, whereas "swift and effective" focuses on speed and successful outcomes. "Swift and effective" is more about the result, while "prompt and decisive" is more about the nature of the action itself.