a sensible step forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sensible step forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing progress or improvements in a situation, indicating that the action taken is logical and beneficial. Example: "Implementing these new policies is a sensible step forward for our organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But treating bank trading floors like hedge funds and having them disclose their Sharpe ratios, whether or not in response to the Volcker Rule, seems like a sensible step forward.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

We are currently conducting a project to outline some sensible steps forward.

Huffington Post

Senator Olympia Snowe, Republican of Maine, said that "freezing shipments to the S.P.R. is a sensible approach, but it is a baby step forward in addressing our nation's energy crisis".

The New York Times

A win tomorrow, a step forward".

Los Angeles Times

How can owners safely and successfully run their businesses without any place to deposit money?" "Senate Bill 75 is a positive step forward for an industry that is crying out for sensible banking solutions," Brian Vicente of Sensible Colorado, a marijuana advocacy group, told The Huffington Post.

Huffington Post

A step forward, but a baby step.

Forbes

a big step forward.

The New York Times

That's a real step forward".

The New Yorker

All this is a huge step forward.

The New York Times

But "it is a great step forward.

The New York Times

But it is a big step forward.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sensible step forward" to positively frame actions or decisions that promote progress in a logical and well-reasoned manner. This phrase conveys a sense of practicality and sound judgment.

Common error

While "a sensible step forward" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. In such contexts, more sophisticated vocabulary might be preferable to maintain a higher level of formality.

Linguistic Context

"A sensible step forward" functions as a noun phrase often used as a predicate nominative or object complement. As Ludwig AI suggests, it identifies an action or decision as a positive and logical move towards progress. It describes an improvement or advancement that is considered reasonable and well-thought-out.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sensible step forward" is a commonly used phrase to positively characterize an action or decision that fosters logical and well-reasoned progress. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, predominantly in news and media, formal business settings, and scientific discussions. While alternatives like "a logical advancement" or "a reasonable progression" exist, "a sensible step forward" maintains a clear and practical tone for expressing approval of positive advancements. Remember to consider the level of formality required by the context when choosing this or similar phrases.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a logical advancement

Replaces "sensible" with "logical" and "step" with "advancement", focusing on the rational nature of the progress.

a reasonable progression

Uses "reasonable" instead of "sensible" and "progression" instead of "step forward", emphasizing the acceptability and forward movement.

a pragmatic advancement

Substitutes "sensible" with "pragmatic", highlighting the practical and realistic aspect of the progress.

a judicious move forward

Replaces "sensible" with "judicious" and "step" with "move", suggesting careful and wise progress.

a sound advance

Substitutes "sensible step" with "sound advance", focusing on the solidity and reliability of the progress.

a well-considered advancement

Emphasizes that the advancement is the result of careful thought and planning.

a practical measure forward

Replaces "step" with "measure", highlighting the actionable nature of the progress.

a rational move in the right direction

Broadens the phrase to explicitly include the concept of moving in the "right direction".

an intelligent leap

Uses "intelligent leap" suggesting a more significant or innovative advancement.

a strategic initiative

Highlights the planned and purposeful aspect of the progress.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sensible step forward" to describe an action or decision that is logical and promotes progress. For example, "Implementing these new policies is "a sensible step forward" for our organization".

What are some alternatives to "a sensible step forward"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a logical advancement", "a reasonable progression", or "a pragmatic advancement", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a sensible step backwards"?

While grammatically correct, "a sensible step backwards" is an oxymoron. It implies a deliberate regression for a beneficial purpose, which may be confusing. Consider rephrasing to clarify the intent, such as "a necessary retreat" or "a strategic adjustment".

What makes a step forward "sensible"?

A "sensible" step forward is characterized by being practical, logical, and well-reasoned. It considers the potential consequences and aligns with the overall goals in a rational manner.