a clear step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear step" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a specific action or decision that is straightforward and easy to understand. Example: "Taking responsibility for one's actions is a clear step towards personal growth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Still, a clear step forward has been taken.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This is a clear step forward in educating players".

The New York Times - Sports

That is a clear step in the right direction, but not enough.

The New York Times

They predict "The W03 is a clear step forward over its predecessor," Brawn said.

The Guardian - Sport

He called the new version "a clear step in the right direction".

The New York Times

These new frames are a clear step forward to integrating Glass successfully into the society outside a tech-elite.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

I then asked for driving directions to Anzu, and heard a clear, step-by-step description of how to get there.

The New York Times - Travel

It's basically a clear, step-by-step guide to arranging, structuring and following up on writers' visits; to find out more or order a copy, go here.

The Guardian

A clear step-change between these molar ratios was observed and the kinetics of the reaction were modelled and determined.

Procedia Engineering

A clear step-change between various steady state molar ratios of methanol to oil and dynamic screening was observed in these mesoscale oscillatory baffled reactors.

Fuel Processing Technology

Table 3 clarifies the actors that play a role in context and provides a clear step-wise view on the required functionality based on specified assumptions.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clear step" to emphasize the straightforward and easily understandable nature of an action or decision. It can be used in a variety of contexts, from describing progress in a project to outlining a simple solution to a problem.

Common error

Avoid using "a clear step" when describing highly complex or nuanced situations. It's more appropriate for actions that are easily understood and implemented, not for multifaceted problems requiring intricate solutions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear step" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It often acts as a subject complement, describing a noun that represents an action or decision. It’s considered correct by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Reference

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a clear step" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe an action or decision that is straightforward and easily understood. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. It frequently appears in News & Media and Scientific contexts, indicating its versatility across various registers. While generally neutral in tone, it is best used to describe actions that genuinely represent uncomplicated progress. Related phrases include "a definite move" and "an obvious action", offering alternative ways to express similar concepts. Using "a clear step" appropriately can enhance clarity and convey a sense of progress in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a definite move

Changes "step" to "move" and "clear" to "definite" emphasizing a decisive action.

an obvious action

Substitutes "step" with "action" and "clear" with "obvious" focusing on a distinct action.

a straightforward measure

Replaces "step" with "measure" and "clear" with "straightforward" highlighting a simple and direct approach.

a distinct advance

Alters "step" to "advance" and "clear" to "distinct", stressing a noticeable improvement.

a marked progression

Changes "step" to "progression" and "clear" to "marked" to emphasize a significant development.

a plain shift

Replaces "step" with "shift" and "clear" with "plain" indicating a simple change or movement.

an unambiguous advancement

Substitutes "step" with "advancement" and "clear" with "unambiguous" to signify a very clear and obvious progress.

a transparent process

Changes "step" to "process" and "clear" to "transparent", focusing on an open and understandable method.

a simple procedure

Replaces "step" with "procedure" and "clear" with "simple" emphasizing an easy and uncomplicated method.

a lucid approach

Alters "step" to "approach" and "clear" to "lucid", highlighting a clear and easily understood method.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear step" in a sentence?

Use "a clear step" to describe an action that is straightforward and easily understandable, such as, "Implementing this new policy is "a clear step" towards improving efficiency".

What are some alternatives to using "a clear step"?

You can use alternatives such as "a definite move", "an obvious action", or "a straightforward measure" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a clear step forward" or simply "a clear step"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "a clear step forward" is more explicit in indicating progress. "A clear step" can imply progress, but its meaning can also depend on the context.

When should I avoid using the phrase "a clear step"?

Avoid using "a clear step" when the action or decision is complex, multifaceted, or not easily understood. In such cases, a more nuanced phrase may be more appropriate.