a massive step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a massive step" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or substantial advancement or progress in a particular context. Example: "The new policy represents a massive step towards achieving our sustainability goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a massive step for us".

Independent

It felt like a massive step.

Independent

That's a massive step forward.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It was a massive step".

The New York Times

Finishing in the top four would be a massive step for the club.

The Guardian - Sport

If that happened it would have been a massive step backwards, and the mountain gets bigger.

The Guardian - Sport

"It's a massive step up but they're young lads who are playing exceptionally well," said Booth.

The Guardian - Sport

Political leaders even considering consulting on their budget is a massive step forward.

The Guardian

It's going to be a massive step for whoever does it.

The Guardian - Sport

That idea that you're not being indulgent, being an artist, is such a massive step.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We took a massive step forward today and I thought our attitude was great.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a massive step" to emphasize the importance or magnitude of a particular advancement or change. It's particularly effective when highlighting progress after a period of stagnation or difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "a massive step" when the progress is only incremental or minor. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact when describing truly significant advancements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a massive step" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. It describes something that is a significant advancement or progression. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Sport

24%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a massive step" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to emphasize significant progress or advancement. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and wide applicability. It's found most frequently in news and sports contexts, but its neutral register makes it suitable for various situations. To enhance your writing, use it when highlighting substantial positive changes and avoid overusing it for minor improvements. Consider alternatives like "a significant advancement" or "a major breakthrough" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant advancement

Emphasizes the degree of progress made.

a considerable leap forward

Stresses the distance covered in the progress.

a pivotal development

Highlights the importance and potential consequences of the progress.

a major breakthrough

Highlights a sudden and important discovery or achievement.

a historic achievement

Highlights the enduring significance of the progress.

a substantial stride

Focuses on the action of moving forward with purpose.

a giant leap

Emphasizes the magnitude of the progress using a hyperbolic expression.

a quantum leap

Implies an abrupt and fundamental change.

a game-changing innovation

Emphasizes the transformative impact of the progress.

a sea change

Suggests a fundamental shift in attitudes or conditions.

FAQs

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

You can use "a massive step" to describe significant progress, such as "The new legislation is "a massive step" towards environmental protection".

What are some alternatives to saying "a massive step"?

Consider using phrases like "a significant advancement", "a major breakthrough", or "a considerable leap forward" to convey a similar meaning.

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

Yes, "a massive step" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in contexts where you want to emphasize the scale and importance of progress being made. Consider the tone and audience to determine if it is the most effective choice.

What's the difference between "a massive step" and "a small step"?

"A massive step" indicates substantial progress or a significant change, whereas "a small step" suggests incremental progress or a minor adjustment. The choice depends on the scale of the advancement you're describing.