a good step forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a good step forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate progress or improvement in a situation or decision. Example: "The new policy is a good step forward in addressing climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She's taken a good step forward.

The New Yorker

This was a good step forward.

The Washington Post

"I think it's a good step forward," she said.

The Guardian - Tech

"But this is a good step forward for giving firms like us a chance to compete".

The New York Times

This can only be a good step forward for fans of boxing and other sports".

Independent

Zabaleta said: "It's important to win the first game, as it is a good step forward.

Independent

The American ambassador, by contrast, chose to praise the reforms overall as "a good step forward".

The Economist

Still, after a decade of negotiations, the agreement is a good step forward.

The New York Times

As a temporary measure, however, Mr. Holt's legislation is a good step forward.

The New York Times

While the new system will most likely have glitches, it will be a good step forward.

The New York Times

Froman said that while nobody considered the agreement complete, it is a good step forward.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a good step forward", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific problem or challenge is being addressed by this step. This provides clarity and reinforces the progress being made.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the significance of "a good step forward". While it signifies progress, ensure the language doesn't imply complete resolution or a massive breakthrough if the actual impact is more incremental.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a good step forward" functions as a noun phrase that describes an action, decision, or event that contributes positively to a desired outcome or progress. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a good step forward" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression signifying positive progress or improvement. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across varied contexts, prominently in news, science, and academic domains. While alternatives like "positive advancement" or "beneficial development" exist, "a good step forward" maintains a neutral register suitable for formal and informal communication. When using the expression, ensure that context clarifies the specific challenge being addressed to strengthen its impact. It's a valuable tool for expressing optimism and acknowledging advancements, as validated by numerous authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a positive advancement

Emphasizes the advancement aspect, highlighting the positive nature of the progress.

a beneficial development

Focuses on the advantageous nature of the development, implying a favorable outcome.

a constructive move

Highlights the helpful and productive nature of the action taken.

a significant improvement

Stresses the importance and impact of the improvement.

a promising development

Indicates that the development is likely to lead to a positive future outcome.

a step in the right direction

Highlights that the action is aligned with a desired goal or outcome.

a move in a positive direction

Similar to the previous phrase, but emphasizes the act of moving towards something positive.

a valuable contribution

Focuses on the worth and impact of the input or effort made.

a welcome initiative

Highlights the positive reception and appreciation for the action taken.

a worthwhile endeavor

Emphasizes the value and merit of the effort or undertaking.

FAQs

What does "a good step forward" mean?

The phrase "a good step forward" generally means a positive action or development that contributes to progress or improvement in a particular situation or endeavor. It suggests advancement in the right direction.

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

You can use "a good step forward" to describe an action, policy, or decision that is considered to be progressive or beneficial. For example, "The new environmental regulations are "a good step forward" in combating climate change."

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

You can use alternatives like "positive advancement", "beneficial development", or "constructive move" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a good step forward" in formal writing?

Yes, "a good step forward" is appropriate for formal writing, including news articles, academic papers, and business documents. It is a clear and professional way to express progress.