to act on something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to act on something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to taking action based on a decision, advice, or information received. Example: "After reviewing the report, the committee decided to act on the recommendations provided."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

It's the feeling you get when you think you have to act on something right away or you'll miss out.

The New York Times

"People don't really tend to act on something until they hear footsteps coming behind them," Mr. Benjamin said.

The New York Times

"I spent 12 years as a governor, eight years as a president and 15 years since I left the White House working all over the world trying to act on something I know," he added.

The Guardian

Pinterest's user base represents one that fits the whole advertising spectrum, from increasing brand awareness (referred to as the top of the funnel) to getting a user to act on something, like downloading an app or buying a product.

TechCrunch

"Some companies take weeks or months to act on something like this.

HuffPost

In other words, FKBP is only a cofactor or receptor required by the drug to act on something else; FKBP itself is not the target required for viability.

Genetics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

I don't always say what I want and I rarely, if ever, act on something entirely for myself without great deliberation, shame, and resentment.

Huffington Post

Bishop, who led Australia's negotiating team, said it was a "historic" and "momentous" occasion because the whole world had agreed to act on climate change – something that could also allow Australia to do more.

The Guardian

I decided early on that I was never going to get a [regular] job, because I never wanted to be in a position where I couldn't act on something if it turned up.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We're completely surrounded by lists … the problem is those lists are something to consume but not really something to act on, you have to print them or email them whatsoever.

TechCrunch

If, instead, I can make them think of something few people are thinking of or, even better, make them act on something meaningful then I have actually added some value.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to act on something", ensure the action is clearly linked to the preceding information or event. This makes the cause-and-effect relationship evident to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "to act on something" when the intended meaning is simply 'to think about' or 'to consider'. "Acting" implies a tangible response or implementation, not mere contemplation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to act on something" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating the performance of an action as a result of a particular stimulus or piece of information. Ludwig AI supports this use, showcasing examples where decisions or behaviors directly follow from data or insights.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to act on something" is a versatile phrase that describes the execution of an action prompted by particular information or an event. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in a variety of contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. While alternatives like "to take action on" or "to respond to" exist, understanding the specific nuance you wish to convey is critical for effective communication. Remember to use "to act on something" when a tangible response or implementation is intended, not just for contemplation. The phrase's prevalence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its reliability and widespread acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to take action on something

Emphasizes the initiation of a process or series of steps in response to something.

to act upon something

Slightly more formal alternative that suggests a deliberate and considered action.

to respond to something

Focuses on the reaction or reply to a stimulus or event.

to react to something

Suggests an immediate or instinctive response to an event or situation.

to capitalize on something

Highlights the exploitation of an opportunity or advantage.

to follow through on something

Emphasizes the completion or execution of a plan or commitment.

to implement something

Focuses on putting a plan or decision into effect.

to execute something

Implies a more forceful and decisive action.

to operate on something

Implies a direct modification or influence on something.

to make use of something

Highlights the practical application or utilization of something available.

FAQs

What does "to act on something" mean?

The phrase "to act on something" means to take action or make a decision based on specific information, advice, or a feeling. It implies that there is a direct response to a stimulus.

How can I use "to act on something" in a sentence?

You can use "to act on something" when you want to express that someone is doing something as a result of a particular piece of information. For example: "After receiving the warning, they decided "to act on" it immediately".

What are some alternatives to "to act on something"?

Alternatives include phrases like "to take action on", "to respond to", or "to act upon", depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "to act on something" and "to react to something"?

Yes, "to act on something" generally implies a more thoughtful and considered response based on information or planning, while "to react to" suggests a more immediate, possibly instinctive, response to an event or situation.