a positive step

USAGE SUMMARY

"a positive step" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe an action or decision that is viewed as beneficial, helpful, or progress in a certain situation. Example: The new company policy of providing flexible work hours is a positive step towards promoting work-life balance among employees.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is a positive step.

The Economist

It's definitely a positive step.

The New York Times

"It was a positive step.

The New York Times

So NCTC is a positive step forward.

The New York Times

"We think this is a positive step".

The New York Times

This is a positive step forward.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's a positive step forward," Maine said.

The New York Times - Sports

I see this [as] a positive step.

The Guardian

"It's definitely a positive step forward".

The New York Times - Sports

It is a positive step forward.

The Times

The document represents a positive step forward.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a positive step" to clearly indicate approval or support for a specific action or decision. It concisely conveys that something beneficial has occurred.

Common error

While "a positive step" is generally affirmative, it can sound dismissive if used when addressing severe or systemic problems. In such cases, acknowledge the limitations of the action and avoid suggesting it's a complete solution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a positive step" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or an object, describing an action, decision, or event in affirmative terms. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is commonly used to express approval or support for a particular development.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Sports

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

6%

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a positive step" is a commonly used phrase to describe an action or decision considered beneficial or representing progress. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the context and avoids minimizing the complexity of serious issues. Alternatives such as "a step in the right direction" or "a good move" can provide nuanced expressions depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a step in the right direction

This phrase emphasizes that the action is aligned with a desired goal or outcome.

a step forward

This phrase simply indicates movement towards progress or advancement.

a good move

This alternative is more informal and suggests a wise or beneficial decision.

a welcome development

This phrase highlights that the action is pleasing or appreciated.

a beneficial change

This alternative underscores the advantageous nature of the alteration or modification.

a favorable action

This alternative directly describes the action as advantageous or beneficial.

a promising start

This phrase suggests that the action sets a good precedent for future endeavors.

an encouraging sign

This phrase suggests that the action provides hope or optimism for future progress.

a constructive measure

This alternative implies that the action is designed to build or improve something.

a helpful initiative

This alternative emphasizes the supportive and useful aspect of the action.

FAQs

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

You can use "a positive step" to describe an action or decision that is considered beneficial or helpful, for example: "Implementing flexible work hours is "a positive step" towards improving employee satisfaction."

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

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a step in the right direction", "a good move", or "a welcome development" instead of "a positive step".

Is it always appropriate to describe something as "a positive step"?

While generally affirmative, it's important to consider the context. In situations involving serious or systemic issues, describing an action as simply "a positive step" might minimize the problem. Ensure your language reflects the scale and complexity of the situation.

What's the difference between "a positive step" and "a step forward"?

While similar, "a positive step" implies not only progress but also a beneficial or favorable quality to the action, whereas "a step forward" primarily emphasizes advancement or movement in a direction.