significant decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "significant decision" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used when describing an important or meaningful choice to be made. For example: I'm facing a significant decision that could affect my future.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

But one highly significant decision has effectively now been made.

The Guardian

"What do you mean by 'a significant decision?' " Hamilton answered.

The New Yorker

The most significant decision will be at quarterback.

The New York Times - Sports

"This significant decision is made in line with the escalation framework," he said.

The Guardian

"Do you consider the decision . . . a significant decision by the Department of Homeland Security?" she asked.

The New Yorker

In 1949 a famous free-market economist made a significant decision.

The Guardian - Books

I expected more from Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. in his first significant decision.

The New York Times

Mr. Lane hailed the ruling as "great — a significant decision" that would continue public access to other streams.

The New York Times

Several yards later, you will approach an intersection, and also your most significant decision of the day.

The Guardian - Travel

A year ago, the then education secretary, Michael Gove, took what seemed to be a bold and significant decision.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

However, as the "front line person" the spouse has significant decision-making choices.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "significant decision", ensure the context clearly indicates why the decision holds importance. Provide details about the potential impact or consequences to emphasize its significance.

Common error

Avoid using "significant decision" for routine choices. Reserve it for situations where the outcome genuinely carries substantial weight or long-term implications. Choose alternative phrasing like "important choice" in the scenarios with less effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant decision" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "significant" modifies the noun "decision". Ludwig examples showcase its use to describe impactful choices across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "significant decision" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase used to describe choices with notable importance and impact. As shown by Ludwig, it appears most frequently in news and media, scientific, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, writers should ensure the context clearly indicates the reasons for the decision's significance to avoid overstating its importance in trivial situations. Alternatives like "important choice" or "critical judgment" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

important choice

Replaces "decision" with "choice", highlighting the act of selecting among alternatives.

major determination

Substitutes both "significant" and "decision" with synonyms that amplify the weight of the conclusion.

critical judgment

Emphasizes the crucial nature of the decision-making process and its outcome.

momentous resolution

Conveys a sense of historical importance and finality in the decision.

key conclusion

Highlights the importance of the decision as a central takeaway or outcome.

pivotal call

Emphasizes the turning-point nature of the decision.

consequential ruling

Specifically refers to a decision made by an authority with lasting implications.

strategic assessment

Implies a careful and calculated decision-making process aimed at achieving a specific goal.

substantial verdict

Indicates a significant finding or judgment, often in a legal or formal context.

impactful resolution

Focuses on the potential effects and consequences of the decision.

FAQs

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

Use "significant decision" to describe a choice with considerable impact. For example, "The board's decision to invest in renewable energy was a "significant decision" for the company's future."

What are some alternatives to "significant decision"?

Alternatives include "important choice", "major determination", or "critical judgment". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "significant decision" formal or informal?

"Significant decision" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the gravity of the decision itself rather than the setting in which it is discussed.

What makes a decision "significant"?

A decision is "significant" when it has a notable impact, far-reaching consequences, or alters the course of events. The degree of significance depends on the context and the potential outcomes.