a real step forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a real step forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant improvement or progress in a particular situation or context. Example: "The new policy implemented by the company is a real step forward in promoting employee well-being."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

That's a real step forward".

The New Yorker

It is a real step forward".

The New York Times

The national minimum wage was a real step forward.

Independent

"This is a real step forward for beauty advertising.

The Guardian

But if the vote on Monday signals a real step forward, new jobs may yet result.

The New York Times

"Although huge progress has been made, this is a real step forward.

Independent

GÖRING: It's called "Boyfriend," and it seems to be a real step forward.

The New Yorker

"This is a real step forward for M.L.S. and U.S. soccer.

The New York Times

"This is a real step forward," Mr. Gregg said in an interview.

The New York Times

The book represents a real step forward for Wolitzer, and its success lies in its reticence.

The New York Times - Books

Here is something that landlords could create now, to take a real step forward towards 2012.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a real step forward" to highlight tangible improvements in a project, process, or situation. For instance, "The implementation of the new software represents a real step forward in data management."

Common error

Avoid using "a real step forward" for minor or incremental changes that don't represent a substantial improvement. Reserve it for situations where the progress is genuinely noteworthy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a real step forward" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or an appositive. It describes something as being a significant improvement or advancement. The Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a real step forward" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe significant progress or improvement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's widely used in news and media, conveying optimism and approval. While versatile, it should be reserved for genuinely noteworthy advancements to avoid overstatement. Consider alternatives such as "a significant improvement" or "a notable advance" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Top authoritative sources for this phrase include The New York Times, The Guardian, and BBC.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant improvement

Focuses on the degree of betterment achieved.

a notable advance

Highlights the forward movement made.

a considerable gain

Emphasizes the benefit or advantage obtained.

a positive development

Indicates a beneficial change or event.

a promising start

Suggests a hopeful beginning with potential for further success.

a marked progression

Stresses the gradual but noticeable advancement.

an encouraging sign

Highlights something that inspires hope and confidence.

a welcome change

Focuses on the positive reception of the alteration.

a turn for the better

Indicates an improvement in circumstances or condition.

a move in the right direction

Suggests progress toward a desired goal or outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "a real step forward" to describe significant progress or improvement, as in "The new environmental regulations are "a real step forward" for conservation efforts."

What's a good alternative to "a real step forward"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a significant improvement", "a notable advance", or "a positive development".

Is it better to say "a real step forward" or "a major breakthrough"?

"A real step forward" suggests gradual progress, while "a major breakthrough" implies a sudden, significant discovery or achievement. The best choice depends on the nature of the advancement you're describing.

Can "a real step forward" be used sarcastically?

While primarily used positively, "a real step forward" could be used sarcastically if the context clearly indicates that the progress is insignificant or even detrimental. However, this usage is less common.