a constructive step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a constructive step" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an action or decision that is intended to improve a situation or contribute positively to a process. Example: "Implementing a new training program is a constructive step towards enhancing employee performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

That would be a constructive step forward for the industry.

The Guardian - Tech

The recent talks are nevertheless a constructive step.

The New Yorker

Is that a constructive step in your view?

The Washington Post

The new products are "a constructive step," said Timothy Luke, an analyst with Lehman Brothers.

The New York Times

To Coty, that move felt like stalling rather than a constructive step toward negotiations.

The New York Times

Such a renunciation, he says, is unacceptable, but he still sees the offer as a constructive step.

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

So I want to offer him a suggestion — a simple, constructive step that would save the Treasury money.

The New York Times

"This is a very constructive step, definitely in the right direction, and a unique opportunity to make progress in the evolution of the internet governance ecosystem," says Anriette Esterhuysen, executive director of the Association for Progressive Communications APCC).

Forbes

The decision just announced at meetings in Bonn, Germany, by the Canadian delegation that Canada will not take on a target in a second commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol can be a very constructive step forward.

HuffPost

"I commend Prime Minister Netanyahu for taking, I think, a very constructive step.

The New York Times

"The directive offered today by the European Commission is a highly constructive step toward our mutual goal of protecting investors," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a constructive step", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific problem or situation the step is intended to address. Providing this clarity enhances the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something is "a constructive step" without explaining why it is constructive or what specific benefit it provides. Always add context to strengthen your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a constructive step" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes an action or measure taken with the intention of improving a situation or making progress toward a goal. Ludwig confirms its general usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a constructive step" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to positively evaluate an action or decision. As Ludwig AI indicates, it describes actions intended to improve a situation or progress toward a goal, commonly found across news, academic, and scientific contexts. While the phrase is generally applicable, it's advisable to provide clear context to showcase why a specific action qualifies as a constructive one. Alternatives like "a positive move" or "a helpful measure" can be used to vary the wording while retaining the core meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a positive move

Emphasizes the positive aspect of the action.

a helpful measure

Highlights the helpful nature of the action.

a beneficial action

Focuses on the advantageous outcome of the action.

a valuable contribution

Stresses the worth of the action towards a larger goal.

a practical approach

Suggests the action is realistic and effective.

a forward-thinking initiative

Highlights the innovative and future-oriented nature of the action.

a strategic decision

Focuses on the calculated and planned aspect of the action.

a significant advancement

Emphasizes the progress made by the action.

a promising development

Highlights the potential for positive outcomes.

a worthwhile endeavor

Stresses the value and effort put into the action.

FAQs

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

Use "a constructive step" to describe an action or decision that is intended to improve a situation or contribute positively to a process. For example, "Implementing a new training program is "a constructive step" towards enhancing employee performance."

What are some alternatives to "a constructive step"?

You can use alternatives like "a positive move", "a helpful measure", or "a beneficial action" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "constructive step" or "positive step"?

While both "constructive step" and "positive step" indicate progress, "constructive step" implies a deliberate and thoughtful action aimed at building or improving something. "Positive step" is more general and simply indicates a favorable action.

What makes something qualify as "a constructive step"?

For something to be considered "a constructive step", it should demonstrably contribute to solving a problem, improving a situation, or achieving a goal in a meaningful and helpful way.