a reasonable start

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reasonable start" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the beginning of a process, project, or plan that is considered acceptable or satisfactory. Example: "This proposal is a reasonable start to addressing the issues we've been facing in our department."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

That would seem a reasonable start.

The Economist

He has got off to a reasonable start.

The Economist

I felt if I could get off to a reasonable start, I would have a shot".

The New York Times - Sports

It will take some time and Theresa May's proposals are a reasonable start.

The Guardian

So far, 2016 is off to a reasonable start, although it seems the country will continue to be targeted intermittently.

Harvard University

A reasonable start is to assume that the mixture of organic compounds in carbonaceous meteorites resembles components available on the early Earth through extraterrestrial infall.

University of California, Berkeley

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

It suggests that $8,000 might be a reasonable starting point.

The New York Times - Health

GEORGE PACKER: I thought they were a reasonable starting point.

The New Yorker

But the Democrats' proposal sounds to us like a reasonable starting point.

The New York Times

But a reasonable starting point to examine the modern wars is May 14 , 1948

The New York Times

Other Republicans backed the measure, saying it was a reasonable starting point for getting Americans back to work.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a reasonable start", ensure the context clarifies what constitutes 'reasonable' in that specific situation. Providing measurable criteria can strengthen the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a reasonable start" when the initial progress is clearly exceptional or significantly above expectations. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reasonable start" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. It describes the initial phase of an activity, project, or process, characterizing it as acceptable or adequate, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

22%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a reasonable start" is a versatile expression used to describe an acceptable initial phase, as indicated by Ludwig AI. It's commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, portraying neutrality and adequacy. While grammatically correct and frequently used, ensure clarity in defining 'reasonable' and avoid overstating initial progress. Alternatives like "a good starting point" or "a promising inception" can add nuance, as highlighted by Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a good starting point

Focuses on the initial stage as a base for further development.

a decent beginning

Emphasizes the adequacy of the commencement.

an acceptable kickoff

Highlights the satisfactoriness of the initial launch or start.

a fair commencement

Indicates an equitable or just beginning.

a promising inception

Stresses the potential and hope associated with the start.

a viable preliminary step

Focuses on the practicality and feasibility of the initial action.

a sound foundation

Emphasizes the stability and reliability of the initial base.

a practical approach to begin with

Highlights the pragmatic nature of the initial method.

an adequate first move

Stresses the sufficiency of the opening action.

a satisfactory preliminary attempt

Indicates that the first try was good enough.

FAQs

How can I use "a reasonable start" in a sentence?

You can use "a reasonable start" to describe an acceptable beginning or initial phase. For example, "The project had "a reasonable start", but challenges emerged later on."

What are some alternatives to "a reasonable start"?

Alternatives include "a good starting point", "a decent beginning", or "a promising inception" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a reasonable start" or "a good start"?

While both are acceptable, "a reasonable start" implies that the beginning is adequate and meets expectations, whereas "a good start" suggests a more positive and successful beginning. Choose the phrase that best fits the situation.

What does it mean to describe something as "a reasonable start"?

Describing something as "a reasonable start" means that the initial phase or attempt is considered acceptable and provides a sufficient basis for further development or progress.