reasonable decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reasonable decision" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a decision that is sensible and prudent. For example, "The team made a reasonable decision to hire an outside consultant to address the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

She is trying to turn a reasonable decision about space into a reason to declare war on the Mayor and the Department of Education.

Huffington Post

Rationally, this is a reasonable decision.

The Guardian - Opinion

Priors which lead to reasonable decision rules are suggested.

Structural Safety

It was a reasonable decision, based on scientific evidence.

The New York Times

Jim Comey & Jack L. Goldsmith, Holder's Reasonable Decision, Wash.

Harvard University

Bashar, you need to make one reasonable decision in your lifetime to save this country".

The Guardian

"I hope the court will make the correct, reasonable decision," he said.

The New York Times

But, given the specifics of this situation, I think that Times editors made a reasonable decision.

The New York Times

The treatment of the Syria video struck me as a reasonable decision for a general readership.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

A perfect storm, yes: but a storm of responsibility and reasonable decision-making.

The New York Times - Books

"What happen if all the engines fail and the plane is in the water – OK – and then you go back to the reasonable decision-making.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a decision, specify the criteria that make it "reasonable", such as considering relevant factors or adhering to established guidelines. This provides context and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "reasonable decision" as a generic compliment. Instead, provide specific reasons why the decision was sensible or justified. For example, instead of just saying "It was a reasonable decision", explain that "It was a reasonable decision because it balanced cost-effectiveness with long-term sustainability."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reasonable decision" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "reasonable" modifies the noun "decision". According to Ludwig, this phrase is often used to describe a choice that is logical and justifiable. Examples show it applied in various contexts, such as legal rulings, business strategies and personal choices.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

21%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "reasonable decision" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a choice that is logical and justifiable. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across diverse contexts such as news, science, and academia. While it is a versatile phrase, ensure that you provide specific context to avoid vagueness. Consider using alternatives like "sensible choice" or "rational judgment" to add nuance. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "reasonable decision" in your writing to convey clear and convincing evaluations of choices and actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sensible choice

Focuses on the judicious nature of the selection.

rational judgment

Emphasizes the logical and reasoned aspect of the assessment.

prudent determination

Highlights the careful and cautious nature of the conclusion.

justifiable conclusion

Indicates that the deduction can be defended with good reasons.

sound resolution

Stresses the reliability and robustness of the settlement.

logical deduction

Highlights the systematic and coherent aspect of the reasoning.

well-founded verdict

Suggests the declaration is based on solid evidence.

acceptable resolution

Implies the settlement is satisfactory and agreed upon.

defensible action

Emphasizes that the deed can be supported with valid arguments.

wise course of action

Focuses on the sagacity and foresight involved.

FAQs

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

You can use "reasonable decision" to describe an action that is logical, justifiable, and based on sound judgment. For instance, "The company made a "reasonable decision" to invest in renewable energy sources."

What are some alternatives to saying "reasonable decision"?

Alternatives include "sensible choice", "rational judgment", or "prudent determination" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

What makes a decision "reasonable"?

A decision is considered "reasonable" when it is based on facts, considers available options, and aligns with established criteria or guidelines. It is a "sensible choice" given the circumstances.

Is there a difference between a "reasonable decision" and a "rational decision"?

While both terms imply a logical approach, a "rational decision" focuses more on pure logic, while a "reasonable decision" considers practicality and circumstances. A "rational judgment" might be ideal, but a "reasonable decision" is often more realistic.