reasonable diligence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reasonable diligence" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or professional contexts to refer to the level of care and effort that a person is expected to exercise in a given situation. Example: "The contractor must demonstrate reasonable diligence in completing the project on time and within budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

(C) A written statement not in the form prescribed by paragraph (B) may nevertheless be admissible if made by a person who has subsequently died, or by a person who can no longer with reasonable diligence be traced, or by a person who is by reason of bodily or mental condition unable to testify orally, if the Trial Chamber: (i) is so satisfied on a balance of probabilities; and.

Journal of International Humanitarian Action

(2) Act with reasonable diligence and promptness in representing claimants.

Cornell University

Lehman also failed to use "reasonable diligence" to get the best prices for customers, the association said.

The New York Times

It concluded that "reasonable diligence" by a researcher in the field "would have uncovered the documents". Under 35 U.S.C.

Harvard University

The agency's rules stipulate that "lessees must exercise reasonable diligence in developing and producing … leased resources", language intended to prevent companies from sitting on valuable energy.

The Guardian

The applicant shall certify, in a way satisfactory to the Secretary, that the applicant has shown reasonable diligence in seeking the most favorable financing terms.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Under the new legislation, which governs claims against museums, galleries and auction houses, plaintiffs are freed from any reasonable-diligence provision and the clock does not start until plaintiffs have gathered enough information to evaluate whether they have valid claims.

The New York Times

A fair market sale of real estate usually allows a buyer time for reasonable due diligence.

The New York Times

"Firms must conduct reasonable due diligence and ensure that their representatives have an understanding of these products".

The New York Times

A firm inherits the sins of a company it buys, even if it has done reasonable due diligence, the chamber says.

The Economist

Although Picower insisted he was unaware of any wrongdoing, bankruptcy trustees for Madoff's firm sued him for $7.2bn this year, claiming that he "knew or should have known" that his phenomenal payouts were fraudulent and that, at a minimum, he had "failed to exercise reasonable due diligence".

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reasonable diligence", consider the specific context and clearly define what constitutes reasonable effort or investigation in that situation.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the extent of your "reasonable diligence". Be prepared to provide evidence or justification for your claims if challenged.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reasonable diligence" functions as a noun phrase, where 'reasonable' modifies 'diligence'. It describes the quality or degree of effort expected in a particular task or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Academia

40%

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reasonable diligence" is a noun phrase used to describe the appropriate level of effort expected in a given situation. It's grammatically correct and deemed usable by Ludwig, though relatively uncommon. The phrase finds its primary usage in academic, news, and scientific contexts. When employing this term, clearly define what "reasonable" means within the specific situation to avoid ambiguity. Common alternatives include "due diligence" and "appropriate care".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

due diligence

Emphasizes a thorough investigation and careful assessment, often in a business or legal context.

appropriate care

Focuses on providing a level of care that is suitable and fitting for the circumstances.

reasonable care

Highlights the standard of care that a prudent person would exercise under similar conditions.

prudent effort

Implies careful and wise application of effort to achieve a desired outcome.

responsible attention

Suggests a level of attentiveness that fulfills one's obligations or duties.

diligent effort

Emphasizes the consistent and earnest application of effort towards a goal.

conscientious effort

Focuses on effort guided by one's moral sense of what is right and thorough.

proper attention

Highlights the attentiveness needed to adequately address a task or situation.

suitable attentiveness

Implies a level of attention that is appropriate and adequate for the task at hand.

careful attention

Highlights the level of attentiveness that is thorough and deliberate.

FAQs

What does "reasonable diligence" mean in a legal context?

In a legal context, "reasonable diligence" refers to the level of care and effort a reasonably prudent person would exercise under similar circumstances to fulfill a duty or obligation. It's often used to determine if someone acted negligently or made a good-faith effort.

How can I demonstrate "reasonable diligence" in a business transaction?

To demonstrate "reasonable diligence" in a business transaction, you should conduct thorough research, seek expert advice, document your efforts, and carefully evaluate potential risks and benefits. Consider alternatives such as "due diligence".

What are some alternatives to "reasonable diligence"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "appropriate care", "due diligence", or "prudent effort". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What happens if I fail to exercise "reasonable diligence"?

Failure to exercise "reasonable diligence" can have various consequences depending on the situation, ranging from legal liability to professional sanctions. It might be seen as negligence or a breach of duty. Courts can impose penalties if "appropriate care" wasn't followed.