a clear step forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear step forward" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe progress or improvement in a situation, project, or initiative. Example: "The new policy represents a clear step forward in our efforts to promote sustainability within the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

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

The New York Times - Sports

Still, a clear step forward has been taken.

The Guardian - Opinion

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

The Guardian - Sport

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

Independent

Therefore, the utilization of dictionary learning is a clear step forward towards higher levels of efficiency in the compression and storage of data collected by SHM systems.

Measurement

(Chinen) ★ Ravi Coltrane Quartet (Tuesday through Oct. 7) The implicit hope for "Spirit Fiction," Ravi Coltrane's Blue Note debut, was that it would represent a clear step forward.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

The The 18 Series microcontrollers represent a very clear step forward in the PIC design strategy.

Designing Embedded Systems with PIC Microcontrollers Principles and Applications

The 18 Series microcontrollers represent a very clear step forward in the PIC design strategy.

Designing Embedded Systems with PIC Microcontrollers Principles and applications

One clear step forward would be the implementation of a "biological passport" scheme, which monitors players' individual hormone levels over their entire careers for fluctuations.

The Economist

For our country, it is one clear step forward to inject into business the values we need — values tested in fire and duress.

Harvard Business Review

The testimony was the first clear step forward for the prosecution, which was left reeling after its first five witnesses — all police officials — recanted what prosecutors said were their initial statements about instructions from senior police officials to use live ammunition or other force against the protesters.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clear step forward" when you want to emphasize that progress is easily recognizable and positive.

Common error

While "a clear step forward" is a useful phrase, avoid relying on it too often. Vary your language to keep your writing fresh and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear step forward" functions as an evaluative expression, often used to highlight progress, advancement, or improvement. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and usability of the phrase in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a clear step forward" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote noticeable and positive progress. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage across various contexts, including news, science, and business. It conveys a neutral tone and is suitable for formal communication. When seeking alternatives, consider phrases like ""a definite improvement"" or ""a significant stride"" to maintain clarity while varying your language. Remember to avoid overusing this and any other phrase. Therefore, according to Ludwig, "a clear step forward" is a valuable asset to communicate in an effective way in both formal and informal environments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a definite improvement

Emphasizes the certainty and degree of positive change.

a marked advancement

Highlights the noticeable and significant nature of the progress.

a significant stride

Uses a metaphorical "stride" to indicate a substantial step in progress.

a notable development

Focuses on the new and noteworthy aspect of the progress.

a positive shift

Indicates a change in direction or state towards a more favorable outcome.

real progress

Stresses the tangible and genuine nature of the advancement.

a leap forward

Suggests a more dramatic and substantial improvement than a simple step.

progress is evident

Shifts the focus to the readily observable nature of the progress.

making headway

Implies gradual but consistent movement towards a goal.

on the right track

Indicates that current actions are aligned with achieving a desired outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "a clear step forward" to describe advancements or progress that is easily noticeable and positive. For instance, "The new policy represents "a clear step forward" in our sustainability efforts."

What can I say instead of "a clear step forward"?

You can use alternatives like "a definite improvement", "a significant stride", or "real progress" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "a clear step forward" in formal writing?

Yes, "a clear step forward" is suitable for formal writing, as it conveys a professional and objective assessment of progress. However, always consider the specific tone and audience of your writing.

What's the difference between "a clear step forward" and "a leap forward"?

"A clear step forward" implies steady and recognizable progress, while "a leap forward" suggests a more significant and transformative advancement.