a key step forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key step forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate an important advancement or progress in a particular situation or project. Example: "The new policy represents a key step forward in our efforts to improve workplace diversity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

"This is a key step forward in ensuring that our banking industry works for everyone".

The Guardian - Money

As he told the "comrades" it was "a key step forward in the onward march to socialism".

The Guardian

The top rebel military commander, Simon Gatwech Dual, returned on Monday in a key step forward in the floundering peace process.

The Guardian

A key step forward in the understanding of the health effects of NOx came with a WHO report in 2013, which indicated for the first time that the chemicals were dangerous by themselves and were not simply an irritating accompaniment.

The Guardian

Palestinians hail the protest as nonviolent, and it was cited recently by the Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, as a key step forward in the struggle for a Palestinian state.

The New York Times

The deal was hailed as a key step forward by Commission president Jose Manuel Barroso... but European Parliament president Martin Schulz said it was only a 'drop in the bucket'.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

"This acquisition represents another key step forward as we transition BlackBerry into the premier platform for secure mobile communications software and applications, supporting all devices and operating systems.

TechCrunch

Another key step forward in our understanding of these light-regulated mechanisms has been achieved by genome-wide analyses of the light-induced transcriptome in zebrafish embryos, larvae, heart, and cell lines and within the pineal gland.

BioMed Research International

We are making key steps forward into these new growth channels".

Independent

Although new genotypes provided by both conventional breeding and genetic modification technologies offer key steps forward, practical challenges still remain regarding the uptake and provision of breeding technologies [ 6].

BMC Plant Biology

AROUND THE LEAGUE Two groups seeking to buy the Phoenix Coyotes have signed memorandums of understanding with officials in Glendale, Ariz., a key step toward completing the deal.... Pittsburgh Penguins forward Alexei Ponikarovsky was suspended for the final two regular-season games for a hit he delivered to Josh Bailey of the Islanders.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a key step forward" to emphasize the importance of a particular action or development in achieving a broader goal. For example, "Implementing this new software is a key step forward in streamlining our workflow."

Common error

Avoid using "a key step forward" for minor or trivial improvements. Reserve it for situations where the advancement genuinely has a significant impact or contributes substantially to a larger objective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key step forward" functions as a noun phrase that emphasizes the significance of progress or advancement. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase signals something important is achieved.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

40%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key step forward" is a commonly used phrase to highlight substantial progress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, primarily news, media, and science. It effectively underscores the importance of an action or development in achieving a larger objective. While generally neutral, its formality can be adjusted based on the context. When using this phrase, ensure it genuinely reflects a significant advancement and not just a minor improvement. Alternatives such as "a significant leap forward" or "a major breakthrough" can provide nuanced emphasis, but should be chosen carefully based on the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant leap forward

Emphasizes a more substantial advancement.

a major breakthrough

Highlights a sudden and important discovery or achievement.

a substantial advance

Focuses on the magnitude of the improvement.

a notable improvement

Draws attention to the positive change made.

an important development

Stresses the unfolding or evolution of something significant.

a crucial advancement

Highlights the critical nature of the progress.

a positive move

Indicates a beneficial change in direction or action.

progress

A concise term indicating forward movement or improvement.

a step in the right direction

Suggests that the action is a positive and appropriate move.

a turning point

Implies a critical juncture that marks a significant change in direction.

FAQs

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

You can use "a key step forward" to highlight a significant advancement or progress in a particular situation. For instance, "The new legislation represents a key step forward in environmental protection".

What are some alternatives to "a key step forward"?

Alternatives include "a significant leap forward", "a major breakthrough", or "an important development", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "a key step forward"?

It is appropriate when describing a development or action that is crucial for achieving a larger goal or making significant progress in a specific area.

What is the difference between "a key step forward" and "a small step forward"?

"A key step forward" implies a substantial and important advancement, while "a small step forward" suggests a minor or incremental improvement.