a regrettable step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a regrettable step" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action or decision that is unfortunate or undesirable, often implying that it could have been avoided. Example: "The company's decision to downsize was seen as a regrettable step by many employees who valued job security."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It has taken a regrettable step in undermining the rule of law.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"After success for Northern Ireland this summer, as host to both the G8 Summit and the World Police and Fire Games, disorder on the streets is a hugely regrettable step backwards".

BBC

There are tragic crises in Andhra Pradesh, the regrettable stepping-down of Muhammad Yunus from Grameen, and provocative headlines in the media claiming to refute microcredit's effectiveness.

Huffington Post

For years, they rejected calls by the Greens and Labor to establish the commission, and when Malcolm Turnbull finally relented in November he presented the backdown as a "regrettable but necessary" step to deal with mounting political pressure and uncertainty for the industry.

The Guardian

However, it is a regrettable, but absolutely necessary step while TB increases its vice-like grip on our family farms.

BBC

Roche's chairman and chief executive, Franz Humer, called today's increase in provisions a prudent step toward cleaning up a regrettable problem.

The New York Times

LOHS is taking every step possible to correct & investigate a regrettable misprint discovered in the yearbook.

Huffington Post

That's a regrettable situation".

The New York Times

"This was a regrettable incident.

Independent

That's a regrettable motive.

The New York Times

The snowstorm was a regrettable incident.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a regrettable step", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what considers the step to be regrettable. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a regrettable step" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can diminish the impact and make your writing sound monotonous. Vary your vocabulary to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a regrettable step" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its role in describing an action or decision considered unfortunate.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a regrettable step" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote disappointment or disapproval regarding an action or decision. Ludwig AI analysis shows that it is commonly found in News & Media, Academia, and Scientific contexts, signaling a generally neutral register. To enhance clarity, always provide context to explain why the step is considered regrettable. While versatile, avoid overuse to maintain writing impact. Consider alternatives such as "an unfortunate action" or "a regrettable decision" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unfortunate action

Focuses on the negative consequence of the action itself, without necessarily implying blame.

a regrettable decision

Specifically refers to a choice made that is now considered unfortunate.

an ill-advised move

Suggests the action was poorly thought out or planned.

a lamentable action

Implies a deeper sense of sorrow or regret about the action.

a disappointing measure

Emphasizes the failure to meet expectations.

an undesirable development

Highlights the unwelcome nature of the event or outcome.

a step in the wrong direction

Indicates that the action moves away from a desired goal.

a setback

Conveys a temporary obstruction or delay in progress.

a counterproductive measure

Suggests the action achieves the opposite of its intended effect.

an unwelcome development

Highlights the unwelcome nature of the event or outcome.

FAQs

What does "a regrettable step" mean?

The phrase "a regrettable step" describes an action or decision that is considered unfortunate or undesirable, often implying that it could have been avoided. It suggests disappointment or disapproval regarding the action.

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

You can use "a regrettable step" to describe a decision made by an organization, a government, or an individual. For example, "The company's decision to downsize was seen as "a regrettable step" by many employees."

What are some alternatives to "a regrettable step"?

Alternatives include phrases like "an unfortunate action", "a regrettable decision", or "an ill-advised move", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a regrettable step" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "a regrettable step" when you want to express that an action or decision is viewed negatively or as a mistake. Ensure that the context provides enough information for the reader to understand why the step is considered regrettable.