snap judgment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "snap judgment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a quick and often hasty decision or opinion formed without thorough consideration. Example: "Her snap judgment about the new employee was based solely on first impressions, which later proved to be misleading."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

When I saw that The Gadget Show (Channel 5) was coming back, I made an unkind snap judgment.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I also suggest that, in their rise to snap judgment, some critics have forgotten how rarely television explores and examines sexual norms.

The Guardian - Opinion

His intellectual style is that of a law professor — and we've all recently learned how much worse we could do, how dangerous leadership by gut instinct and snap judgment can be.

The New Yorker

His intellectual style is that of a law professor and we've all recently learned how much worse we could do, how dangerous leadership by gut instinct and snap judgment can be.

The New Yorker

Far enough, is my snap judgment.

The New York Times

We are living in that snap judgment world.

The Guardian

But that snap judgment overlooks Acura's optional Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive system.

The New York Times

I first heard Chan's story on the NPR show "Snap Judgment".

The New York Times

DI: Snap judgment: does this portend a "Breaking Bad" victory at the end of the night too?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It was competence alone that had the snap-judgment predictive power.

The New Yorker

So, thanks to a snap-judgment formed nearly 20 years ago, I've avoided him ever since.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When criticizing a "snap judgment", acknowledge the reasons someone might have made it, then explain why a more considered approach is necessary.

Common error

Avoid making important decisions based solely on "snap judgments". Always gather sufficient information and consider different perspectives to ensure a well-informed outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "snap judgment" functions primarily as a noun, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig's examples show it describing a decision or opinion formed rapidly, sometimes with negative implications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "snap judgment" is a common and grammatically sound English expression used to describe decisions or opinions made hastily without much deliberation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It's frequently found in news and media contexts, often to critique the speed and potential inaccuracy of such judgments. While quick decisions aren't always negative, the phrase often carries a connotation of impulsiveness and a lack of thorough consideration. Alternatives include "hasty decision", "quick decision", and "rash decision". When writing, remember to consider the context carefully before making or criticizing a "snap judgment".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hasty decision

Focuses on the speed and potential lack of thoroughness in the decision-making process.

quick decision

Emphasizes the rapidity of the decision, without necessarily implying a negative connotation.

rash decision

Highlights the impulsiveness and potential recklessness of the decision.

knee-jerk reaction

Implies an automatic and unthinking response to a situation.

impulsive assessment

Focuses on the spontaneous nature of the evaluation or judgment.

premature conclusion

Stresses that the conclusion was reached before all the facts were available.

unconsidered opinion

Emphasizes the lack of deliberation or thought behind the opinion.

intuitive judgment

Suggests a decision based on instinct or feeling, rather than reason.

gut reaction

Implies a decision based on a strong, immediate feeling or intuition.

off-the-cuff assessment

Indicates an evaluation made without preparation or forethought.

FAQs

What does "snap judgment" mean?

A "snap judgment" is a decision or opinion made quickly and without careful consideration.

How can I avoid making "snap judgments"?

To avoid making "snap judgments", take time to gather information, consider different perspectives, and avoid rushing to conclusions.

What are some alternatives to "snap judgment"?

Alternatives to "snap judgment" include "hasty decision", "quick decision", or "rash decision", depending on the specific context.

Is making a "snap judgment" always a bad thing?

Not necessarily. While often implying a lack of thoroughness, a "snap judgment" can be useful in situations requiring quick action or when based on significant experience.