a fundamental step

USAGE SUMMARY

'a fundamental step' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is essential or necessary for achieving something. For example: "Developing a successful business plan is a fundamental step towards reaching your goal."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A fundamental step in recombinant DNA technology is amplification.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It describes increased crime reporting as a fundamental step in changing estates.

The Guardian

"The F12 is a fundamental step forward in every way," Mr. Felisa said.

The New York Times

Ring perception is a fundamental step in many other algorithms.

Journal of Cheminformatics

Floor-planning is a fundamental step in VLSI chip design.

Journal of Algorithms

We believe the executive order is misguided and a fundamental step backwards.

TechCrunch

(Indeed, such analysis is a fundamental step in any sound business plan).

Forbes

Work distribution is a fundamental step to assure a perfect exploitation of multi-cores architecture's potential.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

Localization is a fundamental step for navigation and location-based services.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Extracting binary biometric strings is a fundamental step in template compression and protection [1].

EURASIP Journal on Information Security

Extracting binary biometric strings is a fundamental step in biometric compression and template protection.

EURASIP Journal on Information Security

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a fundamental step", ensure that the subsequent context clearly articulates why the step is essential to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a fundamental step" for minor or insignificant actions. Reserve it for truly crucial elements to maintain impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fundamental step" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a critical action or stage within a process. It emphasizes the indispensable nature of this action, highlighting its role as a foundation for further progress. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

21%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a fundamental step" is a commonly used expression to emphasize the crucial and foundational nature of a particular action or stage in achieving a goal. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable across different contexts, including science, news, and business. When using "a fundamental step", it's important to ensure that the context clearly demonstrates why the step is essential. Alternatives like "a crucial stage" or "an essential element" can be used to add variety to your writing. Avoid overusing the phrase for minor actions to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a crucial stage

Emphasizes the importance of the stage within a process.

an essential element

Highlights that the step is a necessary component.

a key component

Focuses on the step as an important part of a larger whole.

a vital part

Underscores the critical nature of the step for success.

a necessary action

Highlights the step as an action that is required.

an important measure

Highlights the significance of the step as a means to achieve an end.

a foundational element

Stresses the step's role in providing a base for further development.

a building block

Emphasizes the step as something upon which other things are constructed.

a primary requirement

Highlights the step as something indispensable.

a preliminary measure

Focuses on the step occurring before other actions.

FAQs

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

Use "a fundamental step" to highlight an action or stage that is crucial for achieving a particular outcome. For example, "Understanding the basics is "a fundamental step" in mastering any skill."

What are some alternatives to "a fundamental step"?

You can use alternatives like "a crucial stage", "an essential element", or "a key component" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "fundamental step" or "essential step"?

Both "fundamental step" and "essential step" are correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on the nuance you want to emphasize. "Fundamental" suggests a foundational element, while "essential" highlights necessity.

What makes something "a fundamental step" as opposed to just an important step?

A "fundamental step" is not just important but also foundational. It's a necessary prerequisite upon which other actions or progress depend. It represents a basic or core element that is crucial for the overall process.