take reasonable measures

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take reasonable measures" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the need for actions that are sensible and appropriate in a given situation, often in legal, safety, or risk management contexts. Example: "To ensure the safety of our employees, we must take reasonable measures to mitigate potential hazards in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Still, Mr. Gingrich said that as president, he would take reasonable measures to make energy use more efficient.

The New York Times

While you may take reasonable measures to keep your home burglar-free, your safety should not come at someone else's expense or by sullying someone else's reputation.

The New York Times - Magazine

Justice Cameron described a law in Sierra Leone that requires a woman to take reasonable measures and precautions to prevent transmitting H.I.V. to her fetus.

The New York Times - Health

They did so more than 100 years ago, when they were called anarchists — and a responsible nation-state must take reasonable measures to protect its citizens.

The New York Times

If a person's authority to be in the building is in question, officers are directed to take reasonable measures to verify the person's authority, such as asking for identification or for a key to the building's entrance doors.

The New York Times

If your card provider can show that you've failed to take reasonable measures to keep your card and/or your PIN safe, then it could make you responsible for the first £50 of any disputed transaction.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Many countries have taken reasonable measures to target this activity.

BBC

The authors have taken reasonable measures to ensure that, when necessary, conservative estimates have been made.

British Medical Journal

"Nobody wants to punish Canada, but we have to take reasonable security measures as the threat increases," he said in a telephone interview on Thursday.

The New York Times

A venue is not responsible for the actions of every person who walks through the door, but they do need to take reasonable security measures".

Huffington Post

It requires the state only to take reasonable legislative and other measures, within its available resources, to achieve the progressive realisation of each of these rights.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take reasonable measures", ensure that the measures are proportionate to the risk involved. Overly stringent measures can be perceived as excessive, while insufficient measures may lead to negative consequences.

Common error

Avoid assuming that what you consider "reasonable" is universally understood. Clearly define the specific actions that constitute "reasonable measures" in your context to prevent ambiguity and potential disputes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take reasonable measures" functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action to be performed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, indicating its accepted role in standard English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

28%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Academia

8%

Reference

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take reasonable measures" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe the act of implementing appropriate and sensible actions in a given situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Its usage spans across various contexts, including news, science, and business, with a generally neutral to formal register. When employing this phrase, ensure that the "reasonable measures" are well-defined and proportionate to the risk or goal. Consider alternatives like "implement appropriate actions" or "adopt sensible precautions" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

implement appropriate actions

Focuses on the act of putting something into effect, rather than just considering it.

adopt sensible precautions

Highlights the aspect of being cautious and avoiding risks.

exercise due diligence

Implies a thorough and careful approach to avoid harm or failure.

apply prudent strategies

Emphasizes the use of wisdom and careful planning.

institute sound practices

Focuses on establishing reliable and effective procedures.

employ judicious methods

Stresses the use of good judgment and careful selection of methods.

undertake responsible steps

Highlights the aspect of accountability and ethical behavior.

initiate proportionate responses

Suggests a balanced and appropriate reaction to a particular situation.

conduct adequate safeguards

Stresses the element of sufficient protection and security.

ensure responsible governance

Focuses on the actions of authority figures to control.

FAQs

How can I use "take reasonable measures" in a sentence?

You can use "take reasonable measures" to describe actions that should be implemented to prevent something negative or to achieve a specific goal. For example, "The company must "take reasonable measures" to ensure the safety of its employees."

What are some alternatives to "take reasonable measures"?

Alternatives include "implement appropriate actions", "adopt sensible precautions", or "exercise due diligence". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to "take reasonable measures"?

To "take reasonable measures" means to implement actions that are appropriate and sensible in a given situation, considering the potential risks and benefits. It implies a balanced approach that avoids excessive or inadequate actions.

What is the difference between "take reasonable measures" and "take all possible measures"?

"Take all possible measures" implies doing everything conceivable, regardless of cost or practicality. "Take reasonable measures", on the other hand, suggests a more balanced and pragmatic approach, focusing on actions that are justifiable and proportionate to the risk.