use your own judgment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "use your own judgment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when advising someone to make their own decisions based on their personal assessment of a situation. Example: "When deciding on the best course of action, please use your own judgment to evaluate the options available."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

You will need to use your own judgment on just how sensitive the file you are sending is.

The New York Times - Tech

"We'd rather you use your own judgment when it comes to tobacco use, not impose ours upon you," he wrote.

The New York Times - Tech

On that same day in early 1937 that Mr. Roth mistakenly wrote that the Depression had ended, he concluded that instead of relying on experts, the only proper course was to "use your own judgment and do your own thinking".

The New York Times

The options are said to include the orders "Put yourself under the command of the US, if it is still there"; "Go to Australia"; "Retaliate"; or "Use your own judgment".

The Guardian

Or ask them just to say what they understand and where they get stuck, then use your own judgment about whether your advisor will have the same kinds of questions.

Yale University

You'll have to use your own judgment on this one.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Arrange the artwork in the space using your own judgment.

WikiHow

Learning to recognize the warnings signs and using your own judgment is important.

WikiHow

Now, using your own judgment to place the board for making the door; attach the two hinges.

WikiHow

As a beginner, heed the wisdom of the experienced while still using your own judgment and being responsible.

WikiHow

Be prepared to continue using your own judgment as to what is likely to result in the most peaceful and amicable outcomes.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing guidance, follow the phrase "use your own judgment" with context-specific information. This ensures the person can make an informed decision based on their understanding of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "use your own judgment" as a substitute for providing clear instructions or relevant information. Ensure you've equipped the individual with sufficient knowledge before advising them to rely on their own assessment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "use your own judgment" functions as an imperative, directly instructing someone to employ their personal assessment and decision-making capabilities. Ludwig AI examples show it is often used when specific rules may not apply or when nuanced understanding is required.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

32%

News & Media

27%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "use your own judgment" is a common and grammatically correct imperative, used to encourage independent decision-making based on personal assessment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news, media, and Wiki contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure the individual has sufficient information to make an informed decision. Alternatives such as "rely on your own assessment" or "exercise your discretion" can be used to convey similar meanings. Providing clear context and avoiding generic advice are essential for its effective use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rely on your own assessment

Focuses on the act of depending on one's evaluation.

trust your instincts

Emphasizes intuition as the basis for decision-making.

exercise your discretion

Highlights the freedom to choose based on personal wisdom.

make your own call

Suggests taking responsibility for a decision.

follow your own lead

Implies independence in choosing a course of action.

go with your gut feeling

Similar to trusting your instincts but slightly less formal.

act on your best assessment

Focuses on the action resulting from a careful evaluation.

determine for yourself

Emphasizes the personal nature of the decision.

decide based on your understanding

Highlights that the decision should be based on comprehension of something.

take the initiative to decide

Adds an element of proactivity and ownership to the decision-making process.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to tell someone to "use your own judgment"?

It's appropriate when someone has enough information or experience to assess a situation and make a reasonable decision. It's also useful when specific rules can't cover every possible scenario.

What does "use your own judgment" really mean?

It means to assess a situation, consider available information, and make a decision based on your own understanding and reasoning, rather than blindly following instructions or relying solely on others.

How can I encourage someone to "use your own judgment" effectively?

Provide them with as much relevant information as possible, explain the potential consequences of different choices, and encourage them to consider their own values and priorities. You can also suggest alternatives like "rely on your own assessment" or "exercise your discretion".

Is there a risk in telling someone to "use your own judgment"?

Yes, especially if they lack the necessary experience, information, or understanding. In such cases, it's better to provide clear guidance or seek expert advice. Remember to consider alternatives phrases like "trust your instincts".