tough decisions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tough decisions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to difficult choices that require careful consideration and may have significant consequences. Example: "As a leader, I often have to make tough decisions that affect the entire team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Next: Making the Tough Decisions.

The New York Times

That would require tough decisions.

The Economist

Sure they're tough decisions.

The New York Times

"Are these tough decisions?

The New York Times

These are tough decisions.

The Guardian - Opinion

Tough decisions followed.

The Guardian - Sport

"There will be tough decisions.

The Guardian

Let's delay the tough decisions.

The Guardian

"Tough decisions need to be taken".

The New York Times

You have to make tough decisions".

Independent

Tough decisions have to be taken.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the decisions, provide context. What makes them tough? What are the potential consequences?

Common error

Avoid using "tough decisions" to describe trivial choices. Save it for situations where the stakes are genuinely high, and the implications are significant. Opt for phrases like "difficult choice" or "tricky situation" when describing simple choices.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tough decisions" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "tough" modifies the noun "decisions". According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts. It usually acts as the object of a verb, highlighting the action of making such choices.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tough decisions" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe choices that are difficult and consequential. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is suitable across various contexts, particularly in news, business, and general communication. When using the phrase, consider the specific nuances you want to convey and use synonyms like "difficult choices" or "critical decisions" where appropriate. Ensure the context warrants the weight implied by the phrase, avoiding its overuse in trivial situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficult choices

Emphasizes the difficulty of the choices themselves, rather than the decisiveness required.

hard choices

Similar to "difficult choices" but can also imply emotional difficulty.

challenging choices

Highlights the complexity and demands placed on the decision-maker.

critical decisions

Focuses on the high stakes and potential impact of the decisions.

major decisions

Emphasizes the scope and significance of the decisions.

momentous decisions

Suggests that the decisions are historically important or will have lasting consequences.

weighty decisions

Highlights the burden and responsibility associated with the decisions.

serious decisions

Emphasizes the solemnity and importance of the decisions.

complex decisions

Highlights the multifaceted nature of the choices and the need for careful analysis.

unpleasant choices

Focuses on the negative aspects or consequences associated with the choices.

FAQs

How can I use "tough decisions" in a sentence?

You can use "tough decisions" to describe situations where choices are difficult and require courage. For example, "The company's CEO had to make "tough decisions" to avoid bankruptcy".

What are some alternatives to "tough decisions"?

Alternatives include "difficult choices", "hard choices", or "critical decisions" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "tough decisions"?

Use "tough decisions" when the choices involve significant consequences, ethical dilemmas, or potential negative impacts on people or organizations. It's best suited for serious and complex situations.

Is "tough decisions" formal or informal language?

"Tough decisions" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its usage depends more on the seriousness of the situation than the formality of the setting.