a first step of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a first step of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the initial action or phase in a process or series of actions. Example: "Implementing a recycling program is a first step of our commitment to sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is only a first step, of course.

The Economist

About 175 governments took a first step of signing onto the deal on Friday.

The Guardian

A filtering is employed as a first step of the algorithm to reduce the background noise.

Biomedical Signal Processing and Control

It is a first step of DEVS into the heat transfer in buildings.

International Journal of Thermal Sciences

In a first step of our study we performed a conformational analysis using Molecular Mechanics calculations.

Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry

This work presents this AOML as a first step of a potential standardization process in the modeling of MASs.

Computer Standards & Interfaces

As a first step of the current study, different percentages of RAP and moisture were thoroughly mixed with subgrade soils.

Journal of Traffic and Transportation Engineering (English Edition)

In a first step of the analysis, life table techniques will be used to investigate the time to repartnering for several subgroups.

Princeton University

The committee said today that it had already agreed "a first step" of cutting the value of the expenses claims that can be submitted without a receipt.

The Guardian

Figure 3 Comparison of frequency planning: (a) First step of the proposed scheme.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

As a first step of the evaluation process, the characteristics are quantified in Fig. 2.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a first step of", ensure the subsequent steps are either explicitly mentioned or implied to provide context and direction for the reader.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a first step of" as the only action required to achieve a goal when multiple steps are necessary. This can mislead readers about the scope of the task.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a first step of" functions as a noun phrase that introduces an initial action or stage in a process. It sets the context for subsequent actions or developments, as shown by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a first step of" is a frequently used phrase across various domains, especially in science, news, and academic writing. As Ludwig AI underlines, this phrase serves to introduce an initial action or stage within a process. While generally grammatically correct, it's important to provide context and avoid oversimplification. Alternative phrases like "an initial stage of" or "a starting point for" can be used for variety. This phrase is versatile, but mindful usage ensures clarity and avoids misleading the reader about the complexity of the subject matter.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an initial stage of

Focuses on the stage rather than the action.

a starting point for

Emphasizes the beginning as a place to move forward from.

the onset of

More formal and emphasizes the beginning of something, often something negative.

a preliminary phase of

Highlights the preparatory nature of the beginning.

the commencement of

More formal and emphasizes the act of beginning.

a fledgling attempt at

Indicates a new and potentially unsteady beginning.

the dawn of

More metaphorical, suggesting the start of a new era.

a basic element of

Refers to the fundamental aspects of a concept.

an early iteration of

Describes the initial version of something that will be developed further.

a primary move toward

Emphasizes a strategic initiation for a specific purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "a first step of" in a sentence?

Use "a first step of" to introduce the initial action in a sequence. For example, "Implementing the new security protocol is "a first step of" improving overall system security."

What are some alternatives to saying "a first step of"?

You can use phrases like "an initial stage of", "a starting point for", or "a preliminary phase of" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to follow "a first step of" with "in order to"?

While not grammatically incorrect, it can sometimes be redundant. Consider rephrasing to directly state the purpose of the first step without "in order to" for conciseness.

What's the difference between "a first step of" and "the first step toward"?

"A first step of" generally refers to an action that's part of a larger process, while "the first step toward" implies movement in a specific direction or goal. The latter emphasizes progress, while the former simply indicates initiation.