a satisfactory opening

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a satisfactory opening" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the beginning of a piece of writing, presentation, or any situation where an effective introduction is needed. Example: "The author crafted a satisfactory opening that immediately captured the reader's attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

After a satisfactory opening match for the tourists, Swann confided afterwards that he "wanted to kill" Dilruwan Perera.

The Guardian - Sport

"Secrets That I Never Want to Know" received generally positive reviews from critics, most of whom agreed the episode provided a satisfactory opening to the show's final season.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A 6-3 half-time deficit would have represented a highly satisfactory opening period for the home side.

BBC

Their second 919, driven by Neel Jani, Romain Dumas and Marc Lieb, had to retire after 30 laps due to a hydraulic problem but for Webber's No20 to make it to the finish, and in a podium spot although two laps off the winner, was a more than satisfactory opening for both driver and team.

The Guardian - Sport

South did not have a satisfactory response to his partner's one-diamond opening, and he decided that bidding his three-card spade suit was the least evil.

The New York Times - Arts

What a satisfactory lesson!

The Guardian

A satisfactory answer evades me.

The New York Times

She thought this was a satisfactory answer.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Neither of these make a satisfactory opposition.

The Guardian

We are being told a satisfactory tale.

The Guardian - Books

Starvation is not a satisfactory working condition.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a satisfactory opening", ensure it accurately reflects the quality of the beginning you are describing. If it exceeds expectations, consider a stronger adjective.

Common error

While "satisfactory" is acceptable, overuse can make your writing sound uninspired. Opt for more descriptive alternatives like "compelling", "promising", or "impressive" to add depth and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a satisfactory opening" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically acting as an adjective modifying the noun "opening". It describes the quality or condition of something at its commencement. As noted by Ludwig, it indicates that the beginning is acceptable or adequate.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

34%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a satisfactory opening" is a descriptive phrase used to indicate that a beginning or introduction is acceptable or adequate. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While the phrase is not particularly common, it appears across various contexts including News & Media, Wiki, and Science. To enhance writing, consider stronger adjectives for more impact, and be mindful of overusing "satisfactory" in highly formal contexts. Alternative phrases like "an acceptable beginning" or "a promising start" can offer more nuanced descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an effective lead-in

Highlights the effectiveness of the introduction, emphasizing its ability to set the stage.

an acceptable beginning

Replaces "satisfactory" with "acceptable", indicating a minimally sufficient start.

a competent preface

Focuses on the competence of the preface, suggesting it is well-executed and capable.

a pleasing start

Substitutes "satisfactory" with "pleasing", emphasizing the positive aspect of the commencement.

an adequate kickoff

Uses "adequate kickoff" instead, suggesting a start that meets basic requirements.

a suitable overture

Replaces "opening" with "overture", often used in a more artistic or formal context.

a decent launch

Replaces "opening" with "launch", implying a more active and intentional beginning.

a reasonable commencement

Employs "reasonable commencement", indicating a start that is logical and sensible.

a passable initiation

Uses "passable initiation", conveying that the start is just good enough.

a tolerable introduction

Substitutes with "tolerable introduction", suggesting the beginning is bearable but not ideal.

FAQs

How can "a satisfactory opening" be used in a sentence?

You can use "a satisfactory opening" to describe the beginning of an event, performance, or piece of writing. For example, "The play had "a satisfactory opening", capturing the audience's attention immediately".

What are some alternatives to "a satisfactory opening"?

Alternatives include "an acceptable beginning", "a promising start", or "an effective introduction", depending on the context.

Is it better to aim for a "satisfactory opening" or an "excellent opening"?

While "satisfactory" implies meeting a basic requirement, aiming for an "excellent opening" sets a higher standard. The choice depends on the desired impact and the overall quality you're striving for.

What distinguishes "a satisfactory opening" from "a successful opening"?

"Satisfactory" indicates that the opening is adequate or acceptable, while "successful" implies that it achieved its intended goals or had a positive outcome. A successful opening is often more than just satisfactory.