prudence dictates

USAGE SUMMARY

'prudence dictates' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to signify that caution, care, or sound judgment is necessary in a particular situation. For example: "Prudence dictates that we exercise caution before making any large investments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Prudence dictates taking steps now to minimize the possible shortfall.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Simple prudence dictates a heightened level of awareness," he said in remarks at Tufts University.

The New York Times

"Prudence dictates that we are going to have this kind of problem," he said.

The New York Times

The laws of war and self-defense may permit political assassination in certain cases, but prudence dictates thinking carefully before pulling that fateful trigger.

The New York Times

I wish we did not have to equivocate so much, but prudence dictates that sort of caution given what we have seen in other caucus states.

The New York Times

Prudence dictates otherwise, even if you happen to be Richard Dreyfuss, a movie star with four decades of celluloid service, and a history of imprudence, under your belt.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Doesn't prudence dictate gradualism?

The New York Times

("I always used sheaths when prudence dictated it," Wells claims).

The New York Times - Books

Prudence dictated a small force, a quick reconnaissance, followed by a quiet return.

The New York Times

Prudence dictated retreat – to preserve the hope of fighting another day.

Harvard Business Review

Prudence dictated a sideways chip out and a wedge to the green, especially given how unforgiving the equipment was in the 1920s.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "prudence dictates" to introduce a recommendation or course of action that is based on careful assessment and foresight.

Common error

Avoid using "prudence dictates" in casual conversation or informal writing. This phrase is best suited for more formal or serious contexts where a tone of careful consideration is appropriate.

Linguistic Context

"Prudence dictates" functions as a prescriptive phrase, suggesting a course of action is advisable based on careful consideration and foresight. It often introduces a recommendation, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "prudence dictates" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to suggest a wise or cautious course of action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and usable in written English, signifying that care and sound judgment are necessary. Found most frequently in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts, it carries a formal tone. When using "prudence dictates", consider its formality and opt for simpler alternatives in casual settings. Alternatives like "wisdom suggests" or "caution advises" can offer similar meanings with slight nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wisdom suggests

Replaces "prudence" with "wisdom", focusing on the intelligence aspect of the decision.

caution advises

Emphasizes the element of risk and the need for carefulness.

sound judgment calls for

Highlights the rationality and good sense behind a particular course of action.

it is advisable to

Offers a more direct and practical suggestion.

discretion suggests

Focuses on the need for tact and carefulness in one's actions or words.

it would be wise to

A more gentle and indirect way of recommending a course of action.

circumspection advises

Highlights thoroughness and careful observation before acting.

a cautious approach is needed

Emphasizes the manner in which a situation should be handled.

reason suggests

Highlights the importance of logic and rationality in the decision-making process.

it's a matter of good policy to

Focuses on established principles and procedures.

FAQs

How can I use "prudence dictates" in a sentence?

Use "prudence dictates" to suggest a wise or cautious course of action, such as: "Given the economic uncertainty, "prudence dictates" a conservative investment strategy."

What are some alternatives to "prudence dictates"?

Alternatives include "wisdom suggests", "caution advises", or "sound judgment calls for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "prudence dictates" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "prudence dictates" is generally more suitable for formal or professional contexts. Consider using simpler alternatives in informal settings.

What does "prudence dictates" imply about the suggested action?

It implies that the suggested action is not merely a preference but a carefully considered decision based on sound judgment and foresight, often to avoid potential risks or negative consequences.