smart move

USAGE SUMMARY

"smart move" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe a decision or action that is clever, wise, or shrewd. Example: It was a smart move for the company to invest in new technology, as it has greatly improved their efficiency and profitability.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a smart move.

The New York Times

Smart move, Eastway.

Independent

Rare and smart move.

The New York Times

Smart move, Hardy.

The Guardian - Film

Smart move, Mr Hester.

The Guardian - Business

Very smart move.

The New York Times - Sports

Smart move, everybody wins.

The New York Times

A smart move by Miliband.

The Guardian - Opinion

That's a smart move.

The New Yorker

Smart move, Ubuntu.

MIT Technology Review

Is that a smart move?

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "smart move" to describe decisions or actions that demonstrate intelligence, foresight, or strategic thinking. It's particularly effective when highlighting the positive consequences or benefits of such actions.

Common error

While "smart move" is widely understood, overuse in formal writing can make your tone sound informal. For professional contexts, consider more sophisticated alternatives like "astute decision" or "prudent step" to maintain a polished and authoritative voice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smart move" functions as an adjective-noun combination that describes a decision or action. It implies that the action was well-considered and likely to produce positive results. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage, indicating that it effectively conveys approval or commendation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "smart move" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a wise or intelligent action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively conveys approval or acknowledgment of a well-considered decision. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to consider the context, and it is particularly frequent in News & Media but also in Academia contexts. When a more formal register is required, consider using alternatives like "astute decision" or "prudent step".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

astute decision

Replaces "move" with "decision", emphasizing the decisional aspect of the action. "Astute" highlights shrewdness and sagacity.

clever strategy

Substitutes "move" with "strategy", focusing on the planned and tactical nature of the action. "Clever" underscores ingenuity.

wise course of action

Replaces "move" with "course of action", offering a more formal and deliberate tone. "Wise" emphasizes prudence and good judgment.

prudent step

Substitutes "move" with "step", indicating a single action within a larger process. "Prudent" highlights carefulness and foresight.

sagacious choice

Replaces "move" with "choice", emphasizing the selection aspect. "Sagacious" implies profound wisdom and insight.

shrewd maneuver

Substitutes "move" with "maneuver", emphasizing tactical skill and resourcefulness. "Shrewd" highlights astuteness in practical affairs.

judicious act

Replaces "move" with "act", offering a more formal tone. "Judicious" underscores sound judgment and balance.

canny play

Replaces "move" with "play", suggesting a strategic or game-like action. "Canny" highlights shrewdness and practical intelligence.

insightful measure

Replaces "move" with "measure", emphasizing a specific action taken. "Insightful" highlights deep understanding and perception.

brilliant tactic

Substitutes "move" with "tactic", focusing on a specific method used to achieve a goal. "Brilliant" underscores exceptional intelligence and skill.

FAQs

How can I use "smart move" in a sentence?

You can use "smart move" to describe an action or decision that is clever and beneficial. For example, "Investing in renewable energy was a "smart move" for the company's future."

What are some alternatives to "smart move"?

Alternatives to "smart move" include "astute decision", "clever strategy", or "wise course of action", depending on the specific context.

Is "smart move" appropriate for formal writing?

While "smart move" is widely understood, it can sound informal. In formal writing, consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "prudent step" or "judicious act".

When is it best to use the phrase "smart move"?

The phrase "smart move" is best used when you want to emphasize the intelligence and positive outcome of a particular action or decision. It is effective in both casual and professional contexts, though more formal alternatives may be preferred in highly formal settings.