a formative stage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formative stage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period of development or growth that shapes future outcomes or characteristics. Example: "During a formative stage of childhood, children develop essential social and cognitive skills that will influence their adult lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

"Everything's in a formative stage," he said.

The New York Times

"We're still in a formative stage," Marzio told me.

The New York Times - Magazine

"You're seeing it at a formative stage," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

The Olympics have been a formative stage for stars of the future.

Independent

We cannot accept that so many young people experience their lives this way, particularly at such a formative stage.

The New York Times

"We did not fail them intentionally, but our community was in a formative stage and our youth searching to fill the vacuum within received wrong advice and training".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

But as a faculty member at several leading jazz conservatories, she also mentored many trumpeters at a more formative stage, including Ambrose Akinmusire and Nadje Noordhuis, who have since gained prominence in jazz circles.

The New York Times - Arts

Though to modern critics of colonialism there may seem much to criticize in his ideas and actions, there can be no questioning the great range and effectiveness of the three periods of his work: in the opening up of Africa; in its government at a most formative stage in its history; and as elder statesman working during his so-called retirement almost up to his death.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Acceptance This will be a child's greatest need because their self-concept is very likely in a fragile and formative stage, especially if they are at a young age.

Huffington Post

Acceptance: This will be your child's greatest need because his or her self-concept is likely in a fragile and formative stage, especially if he or she is at a young age.

Huffington Post

As video files are much larger, swapping of such files on the Internet is in a much more formative stage than in music, where the practice has become routine.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing personal development or the growth of an organization, use "a formative stage" to emphasize the lasting impact of that time.

Common error

Avoid using "formal" when you mean "formative". "Formal" relates to established rules or customs, while "formative" describes a period of development.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formative stage" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun, describing a period or phase characterized by significant development or influence. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a formative stage" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes a period of significant development or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It appears most often in news, science, and formal business contexts. When writing, remember that "a formative stage" highlights the lasting impact of a particular time, and avoid confusing "formative" with "formal". Consider alternatives like "developmental phase" or "crucial period" for variety. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use the phrase to convey the importance of early experiences or phases in shaping future outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a developmental phase

Focuses on the developmental aspect, emphasizing growth and change.

an influential period

Highlights the impact and shaping effect of the time.

a crucial period

Emphasizes the importance and significance of the timeframe.

a critical juncture

Suggests a turning point or a moment of decision.

a key phase

Highlights the importance of the stage in a broader process.

a shaping era

Emphasizes the molding and influencing nature of the time.

an impressionable time

Focuses on the susceptibility to influence during the period.

a pivotal moment

Indicates a significant and decisive point in time.

an early chapter

Implies the beginning or initial part of a larger story or process.

a nascent period

Refers to the beginning or early stages of something's development.

FAQs

How can I use "a formative stage" in a sentence?

You can use "a formative stage" to describe a period of significant development or influence. For example: "Childhood is "a formative stage" in personality development."

What are some alternatives to "a formative stage"?

Some alternatives include "a developmental phase", "an influential period", or "a crucial period" depending on the context.

What makes a period "a formative stage"?

A period is considered "a formative stage" when the experiences and developments during that time significantly shape future outcomes or characteristics.

Is it more appropriate to say "formative period" or "a formative stage"?

Both "a formative period" and "a formative stage" are correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice often depends on stylistic preference or the specific context. You can analyze more about "a formative period" here.