responsible choice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "responsible choice" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing decisions that reflect good judgment or ethical considerations. Example: "Choosing to use renewable energy sources is a responsible choice for our planet's future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When a young person is helped to make an responsible choice, is that value-free?

The New York Times

Dear Dr Mander, Are condoms a sin or the responsible choice?

The Guardian - Opinion

By virtue of experience and temperament, he does represent a responsible choice.

The New York Times

In this view, the "responsible" choice is to prevent the suffering a disabled child will endure.

The New Yorker

It is an environmentally responsible choice to reuse them and recycle them".

The New York Times

But the report says we must also educate children so they will develop an ethic of responsible choice.

The New York Times

Waiting, and working longer, she says, is the wiser and more financially responsible choice for most people.

The New York Times

The more responsible choice would be the base 2.7-liter 4, rated at 187 horsepower and 26 m.p.g.

The New York Times

Labour's shadow education secretary in Scotland, Claire Baker, says the party's previous graduate contribution was "a responsible choice".

The Guardian

Neither acknowledged the emails, and Obama argued at length that Clinton is the "steadiest" and most responsible choice for president.

The Guardian

Many feel that they are, in effect, being punished for what they were told was the smart, responsible choice.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing choices related to the environment, health, or finance, using "responsible choice" adds a layer of ethical consideration and good judgment. It communicates that the decision was made thoughtfully and with awareness of its impact.

Common error

While "responsible choice" is widely applicable, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations. Opt for more natural alternatives like "smart decision" or "good call" to maintain a conversational tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "responsible choice" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "responsible" modifies the noun "choice". It typically acts as a subject complement or direct object, indicating a decision that is ethically sound and well-considered, as Ludwig confirms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "responsible choice" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe decisions made with careful consideration of ethical and practical consequences. According to Ludwig, it's often used in contexts related to news, science, and formal business, indicating a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the intended level of formality and consider alternative phrases like "wise decision" or "prudent selection" for variety. Remember that overusing "responsible choice" in casual contexts can sound unnatural, so opt for simpler alternatives when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wise decision

Emphasizes the intelligence and foresight behind the decision.

prudent selection

Highlights the careful consideration and good judgment involved.

judicious option

Focuses on the balance and thoughtfulness of the choice.

ethical decision

Stresses the moral considerations influencing the selection.

sound judgment

Highlights the quality of thinking behind the choice.

sensible course of action

Shifts focus to the practical and reasonable nature of the decision.

accountable action

Highlights that the action considers accountability to a specific set of rules and objectives.

informed decision

Implies that the choice is made with full awareness of the relevant facts and circumstances.

sustainable choice

Highlights that the action is related to the environment and the planet resources.

conscientious selection

Emphasizes the moral integrity and carefulness in making the choice.

FAQs

How can I use "responsible choice" in a sentence?

You can use "responsible choice" to describe a decision that is made with careful consideration of its consequences, such as, "Opting for public transportation is a "responsible choice" to reduce carbon emissions."

What are some alternatives to "responsible choice"?

Alternatives to "responsible choice" include "wise decision", "prudent selection", or "ethical decision" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "responsible choice" and "smart choice"?

While both phrases suggest a good decision, "responsible choice" emphasizes the consideration of ethical or social impacts, whereas "smart choice" primarily focuses on personal benefit or practicality.

When is it appropriate to use the term "responsible choice"?

It's appropriate to use "responsible choice" when you want to highlight the ethical or conscientious aspects of a decision, especially when discussing environmental, social, or financial matters.