take this decision lightly

USAGE SUMMARY

"take this decision lightly" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to caution someone against making a decision without enough thought or consideration. For example, you might say "Don't take this decision lightly - think carefully about the consequences before you commit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

He would not take this decision lightly.

The Guardian

Given the impact, the AARP did not take this decision lightly.

The New York Times

"The fact that he doesn't take this decision lightly tells a great deal about the senator and Ron Paul.

The New York Times

"We did not take this decision lightly," Vivian Schiller, the chief digital officer for NBC News, said in an e-mail.

The New York Times

"We did not take this decision lightly and it remains the case that CCS has a potential role in the long-term decarbonisation of the UK.

The Guardian - Business

"The board did not take this decision lightly and it remains a matter of deep regret that the two parties involved cannot come to an agreement.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

We haven't taken this decision lightly".

The Guardian - Business

Comment: Anyone who knows Burgess will be aware that he will not have taken this decision lightly.

The Guardian

Bailey, who is now research director at the Fabian Society, responded to her resignation on Twitter: "Proud of my old boss, who will not have taken this decision lightly.

The Guardian

But I have been in football long enough to know these things happen and I don't think Owen took this decision lightly.

The Guardian - Sport

"I have not taken this decision lightly, however it is because of my love and respect for the institution of the parliament and the Australian people that I have resigned as Speaker," she said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take this decision lightly" when you want to encourage thorough evaluation and discourage impulsive or casual choices.

Common error

While versatile, "take this decision lightly" might sound overly formal in very casual settings. Opt for simpler language like "don't brush this off" or "think carefully about this" when speaking with close friends or family to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take this decision lightly" functions as a warning or cautionary statement. It advises against underestimating the importance or potential consequences of a particular decision. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples across diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

26%

Science & Research

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take this decision lightly" is a commonly used phrase to warn against underestimating the importance or consequences of a choice. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across news, business, and scientific sources. While its register is generally neutral, it is important to consider the context and audience to ensure the phrase fits appropriately. Alternatives such as "underestimate the gravity of this decision" or "not weigh this decision carefully" can be used for variations in tone. When using the phrase, focus on clearly communicating the potential negative outcomes of a poorly considered decision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not weigh this decision carefully

This implies a lack of balanced evaluation and assessment of the different aspects of the decision.

treat this decision with insufficient care

This suggests a lack of attention and caution when making the decision.

fail to consider the repercussions of this decision

This stresses overlooking the possible negative consequences of the choice.

not fully appreciate the implications of this decision

This highlights a failure to grasp the potential ramifications of the decision.

underestimate the gravity of this decision

This phrase focuses on the potential seriousness and impact of the decision.

not ponder this decision sufficiently

This suggests a lack of deep and thoughtful reflection on the decision.

not give enough weight to this decision

This alternative indicates failing to recognize the importance and potential consequences of the decision.

disregard this choice without consideration

This alternative highlights a lack of forethought and due diligence in the decision-making process.

be imprudent in making this decision

This suggests unwise and ill-advised behavior when choosing.

dismiss this decision without serious thought

This emphasizes a quick, unconsidered dismissal of the decision.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "take this decision lightly" to sound more formal?

In more formal settings, consider using phrases like "underestimate the gravity of this decision" or "fail to fully appreciate the implications of this decision". These alternatives, similar to "not weigh this decision carefully", convey the importance of serious consideration.

What does it mean to "take this decision lightly"?

To "take this decision lightly" means to not give it enough thought or consideration. It suggests a failure to recognize the potential consequences and a lack of seriousness in the decision-making process. Similar to "treat this decision with insufficient care".

Is it ever appropriate to "take this decision lightly"?

Generally, no. The phrase implies that the decision should be taken seriously. However, in very trivial situations where the outcome has minimal impact, one might jokingly say, "Okay, I'll take this decision lightly" to indicate a lack of concern about the outcome.

What are some common mistakes people make when they "take this decision lightly"?

Common mistakes include failing to research the options, not considering the potential risks, and making impulsive choices without a clear understanding of the potential impact. This can be avoided by ensuring you "not ponder this decision sufficiently".