As a precautionary step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "As a precautionary step" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an action taken to prevent potential problems or risks. Example: "As a precautionary step, we decided to conduct additional safety checks before the event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

As a precautionary step, federal officials said today that they were asking the Food and Drug Administration to approve a new use for the anthrax vaccine, to prevent or treat the disease in people who may have been exposed to the bacteria.

The New York Times

As a precautionary step, the significant lag-1 serial correlation effect has been removed from the time series of ET0 before the trend testing.

Applied Water Science

Egghead.com asked the F.B.I. to investigate and said it had notified credit-card companies as a precautionary step.

The New York Times

Egghead.com asked the F.B.I. to investigate and said it notified credit card companies as a precautionary step.

The New York Times

In what they described as a precautionary step, Northern Alliance officials ordered an 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew and banned the carrying of firearms in the capital.

The New York Times

"The decision has been taken as a precautionary step after inspections carried out earlier this week showed a fault in the bridge steelwork.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

"As a result, we believe it is appropriate to take a precautionary step to withdraw from the market all of our Cadbury chocolate products that have been manufactured in Beijing".

The New York Times

In what they called a precautionary step, alliance officials imposed an 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew.

The New York Times

It was a precautionary step "to ensure stocks continue to be available to everyone wanting baby milk", he added.

Independent

"We anticipate that we currently have adequate days' supply to meet existing customer orders and are taking this step as a precautionary measure," Katie Hepler, a Chrysler spokeswoman, said.

The New York Times

The company said it was taking the step as a precautionary measure to study its "reservoir management plans" in Brazil, where it has spent over $2 billion developing the largest foreign-run oil field.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "As a precautionary step", clearly state the potential risk or problem that the step is intended to address.

Common error

Avoid using "As a precautionary step" as filler. Make sure the action taken truly warrants a precautionary approach, rather than being a standard operating procedure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "As a precautionary step" functions as an introductory adverbial phrase. It modifies the main clause by indicating the reason or motivation behind the action being taken. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness in English writing.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "As a precautionary step" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase in English. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to introduce an action undertaken to prevent potential risks or problems. While not exceptionally common, it is frequently found in news and media contexts, conveying a sense of proactive risk management. Consider alternatives like "as a preventive measure" or "as a safety precaution" to vary your writing. Remember to clearly articulate the potential risk being addressed when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

As a preventive measure

Replaces 'step' with 'measure', emphasizing the action's purpose.

As a safety precaution

Focuses specifically on safety as the reason for the action.

As a proactive step

Highlights the forward-thinking nature of the action.

To err on the side of caution

Expresses the desire to avoid potential negative consequences.

As an added layer of security

Emphasizes increasing protection against risks.

In anticipation of potential issues

Highlights planning for possible problems.

To mitigate potential risks

Focuses on reducing the severity of possible harm.

As a safeguard

Implies protection or defense against something.

As an insurance policy

Metaphorically compares the action to securing against future losses.

To hedge against unforeseen circumstances

Addresses unpredictable or unexpected events.

FAQs

What does "As a precautionary step" mean?

It means taking an action to prevent something potentially harmful or undesirable from happening. It indicates foresight and a proactive approach to risk management.

How can I use "As a precautionary step" in a sentence?

You can use it to introduce an action taken to mitigate a potential risk, for example, "As a precautionary step, we are increasing security measures at the event."

What are some alternatives to "As a precautionary step"?

Alternatives include "as a preventive measure", "as a safety precaution", or "to err on the side of caution".

Is it better to say "As a precautionary step" or "As a precautionary measure"?

Both are correct and convey similar meaning. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific context. "As a precautionary measure" might sound slightly more formal.