a logical next step

USAGE SUMMARY

"a logical next step" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a course of action that is the natural progression from the current state of a situation. For example, "After reading the report, taking a survey was a logical next step."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Arrested Development was a logical next step.

Independent

It was a logical next step.

The New York Times

Borschberg said flying is a logical next step.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

For her, graduate school was a logical next step.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Gender performance as vaudeville is a logical next step.

The Guardian

The pursuit of governors is a logical next step.

The Economist

Anticipating your need to search is a logical next step.

The Economist

Once you're shoveling manure, advertising is a logical next step.

The New York Times

A media company seems like a logical next step.

The New York Times

Indeed, while Cole describes herself as "100% British", the US seems like a logical next step.

The Guardian

So, Ms. Tennant with child seemed like a logical next step.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your sentence structure to avoid monotony when using "a logical next step" repeatedly. Try rephrasing with synonyms like "natural progression" or "sensible continuation".

Common error

Avoid using "a logical next step" without clearly articulating why it's logical. Readers need to understand the connection to accept the statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a logical next step" functions as a noun phrase often used as a predicate nominative or subject complement. It characterizes an action or decision as a predictable and rational continuation of a preceding situation, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a logical next step" is a commonly used phrase to describe an action or decision that naturally follows from a previous one. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts. While versatile, it's essential to ensure the logical connection is clear to the audience. Consider synonyms like "natural progression" or "sensible continuation" to add variety to your writing. The phrase is most frequent in news and media, academia, and science, maintaining a neutral register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A natural progression

Focuses on the sequence of events as expected or inherent.

An expected development

Highlights the anticipation or predictability of the advancement.

A sensible continuation

Emphasizes the rationality and prudence of the ongoing action.

A reasonable course of action

Indicates a well-thought-out and justifiable path forward.

The obvious choice

Suggests the decision is clear and straightforward.

An inevitable consequence

Highlights the unavoidable nature of the result.

The next course of action

Neutral alternative, simply indicating the following action.

The subsequent phase

Implies a structured and planned sequence.

A fitting sequel

Suggests the action complements or enhances what came before.

The ineluctable step

Emphasizes the compulsory or unavoidable aspect of the action.

FAQs

How can I use "a logical next step" in a sentence?

You can use "a logical next step" to indicate that an action or decision follows naturally and predictably from a previous action or situation. For example, "After successfully launching the initial product, expanding into new markets was "a logical next step"".

What are some alternatives to "a logical next step"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "a natural progression", "a sensible continuation", or "an expected development".

Is it always necessary to explain why something is "a logical next step"?

While not always explicitly necessary, providing context or reasoning can strengthen your argument and prevent potential misunderstandings. It helps ensure that the reader understands the connection you're making.

What's the difference between "a logical next step" and "a good idea"?

"A logical next step" implies a necessary or predictable progression, whereas "a good idea" simply suggests a beneficial action, regardless of whether it directly follows from a previous action or situation. A good idea might be completely unrelated, while "a logical next step" builds upon existing context.