a starting item

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a starting item" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an initial object or element in a sequence, list, or process. Example: "For our project, we need to identify a starting item that will guide our research."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The computer usually selects a starting item (question) that is of average difficulty.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

Within CAT the patient is asked to complete a starting item that allows calculation of an initial score estimate.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It then uses both data mining and image analysis to compare the celeb photos to those from a more limited number of brands the celeb is known to favor, as a starting point to matching the item to a SKU.

TechCrunch

A new starting item (I study for my courses) was introduced but not used for evaluation and consequently not included in the following countings of items, which starts at 69 for the consequently named LIST69.

International Journal of STEM Education

Finally, we used a well validated anxiety measure as a starting point to develop anxiety items specific for prostate cancer screening and used cognitive testing to verify the initial content validity of the items.

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

However, some of their content with well-tested items provides a starting point from which to develop measures that encompasses patient concerns for use in the early post-operative phase.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

When developing a new scale, the larger the starting item pool the better [ 78].

BMC Nursing

For your starting items, take a "Quelling Blade" and "Tangoes".

WikiHow

Two alternate phrasing options for the FMSD were presented: starting items with the phrase "Last night," and presenting the items as statements rather than questions.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

A plain dress at least finger tip length is a great starting item.

WikiHow

Because a provisional score estimate is unavailable before administrating the first item, a starting level is specified, which is the fourth component.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a starting item" in technical documentation or instructions, be precise about what that item is and its purpose in the overall process. Clarity at the beginning can prevent confusion later.

Common error

Avoid using "a starting item" when simpler terms like "first step" or "initial element" would suffice. Overly formal language can sometimes obscure meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a starting item" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase refers to the initial object or element in a sequence or process.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a starting item" is grammatically correct and serves to identify the initial element in a sequence or process. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is more commonly found in scientific, news, and media contexts, with a neutral register. When writing, consider the best practices of being precise about the item and avoiding overly formal language when simpler alternatives are available. Alternatives include ""an initial element"" or ""a beginning point"".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an initial element

Focuses on the position as the first in a series or sequence.

a beginning point

Emphasizes the commencement of a process or activity.

a first component

Highlights the role as the initial part of a larger system or structure.

an introductory piece

Suggests something that serves to introduce or lead into something else.

a preliminary step

Implies an action taken in preparation for something more significant.

a basic element

Highlights the fundamental or essential nature of the item.

an entry-level item

Specifies that the item is suitable for beginners or those with little experience.

a foundation element

Emphasizes the role as the base or support for something else.

a seed item

Implies a small or initial item that grows into something larger.

a kickoff element

Highlights the role in initiating or launching a process.

FAQs

How can I use "a starting item" in a sentence?

You can use "a starting item" to refer to the first object or element in a sequence or a process. For example, "The computer selects "a starting item" that is of average difficulty."

What are some alternatives to "a starting item"?

Some alternatives to "a starting item" include "an initial element", "a beginning point", or "a first component" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a starting item" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "a starting item" when you need to specify the first element or object to consider in a procedure, test or shopping activity.

Is "a starting item" formal or informal language?

The term "a starting item" is fairly neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it tends to appear more often in technical or instructional content. Simpler terms might be more appropriate for casual conversation.