Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
The next course of action
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "the next course of action" is correct and usable in written English
You can use it whenever you want to talk or write about the next step to take or what should happen next in a particular situation. For example: "We need to discuss the next course of action before we decide how to move forward."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
The RMT said it would also talk to its sister transport union the TSSA - which is to announce its own ballot result next week - on the next course of action.
News & Media
Lawmakers were split Tuesday on the next course of action.
News & Media
You know, if the guy's not there, what's the next course of action?
News & Media
Wait until things settle down and you can think rationally about the next course of action.
News & Media
Right now, he is being brought to a safe location for the next course of action.
News & Media
"The police have contacted their counterpart in Saudi Arabia to determine the next course of action," Mr. Hussein said.
News & Media
After each meeting, Mr. Winner reported back to Toll representatives and helped plan the next course of action.
News & Media
But he said the department was continuing to study the ruling "to determine the next course of action".
News & Media
"We will determine the next course of action after speaking with our Senate colleagues," said Ryan spokeswoman AshLee Strong.
News & Media
Gone are the days when you could predict the next course of action along the dominant ideologies.
Academia
Yadav's lawyer D. K. Mishra said his client was not guilty and he would study the judgment before deciding on the next course of action.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
✓ Best practice
When using "the next course of action", ensure it clearly relates to a specific situation or problem that requires a solution. Provide context to avoid ambiguity.
⚠ Common error
Avoid using "the next course of action" in highly informal settings, as it can sound overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "what's next" or "what to do now".
Linguistic Context
The phrase "the next course of action" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the object of a verb or preposition. It refers to the plan, method, or sequence of steps to be taken following a specific event or decision. Ludwig shows its wide usage across various contexts.
Expression frequency: Very common
✓ Frequent in
News & Media
68%
Science
16%
Academia
5%
⚠ Less common in
Wiki
5%
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "the next course of action" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe the subsequent steps or plans in a particular situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and applicable in various contexts. While suitable for professional and neutral settings, it may sound overly formal in casual conversations. Consider alternatives like "what's next" or "following procedures" depending on the context. Predominantly found in News & Media, its usage emphasizes clarity and direction.
Alternative expressions
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
the subsequent steps
Focuses on the steps that follow, simplifying the original phrase.
the ensuing action
Replaces 'next' with 'ensuing', emphasizing the immediate sequence of events.
the following procedures
Substitutes 'course of action' with 'procedures', highlighting a more structured approach.
the immediate plan
Emphasizes the urgency and short-term nature of the plan.
the proposed plan
Highlights a suggested or intended approach.
the coming steps
Emphasizes the steps that are to come.
More alternative expressions(4)
FAQs
How can I use "the next course of action" in a sentence?
Use "the next course of action" to refer to the subsequent steps to be taken in a given situation. For example, "After evaluating the data, we will determine "the next course of action"."
What is a more informal way to say "the next course of action"?
Informally, you could say "what to do next", "what's next", or "what now" depending on the context.
Is "subsequent course of action" the same as "the next course of action"?
"Subsequent course of action" is similar to "the next course of action" but emphasizes that the action follows something else. They are largely interchangeable, but the nuance can slightly alter the tone.
When should I use "the next course of action" instead of "next steps"?
Use "the next course of action" when referring to a more formal or planned approach. "Next steps" can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested