a starting point

USAGE SUMMARY

"a starting point" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that serves as a basis for further action or discussion, such as, "Let's use this report as a starting point for our project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Need a starting point?

Independent

It was a starting point.

The New York Times - Sports

A starting point for stories.

The New Yorker

But a starting point is tax reform.

The Economist

Those reminders are a starting point.

The New Yorker

For me, decay is a starting point.

The New York Times

"They treat 2017 as a starting point.

The New York Times

"There's not, like, a starting point.

The New Yorker

This was a starting point.

The New York Times - Sports

It is a starting point.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But they're only a starting-point.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a starting point" to introduce an idea or action that serves as the foundation for something more complex. This clarifies the purpose of the initial element.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a starting point" as the ultimate solution or final goal. It should be framed as an initial step, not the end result. For example, don't say "This report is a starting point, so the problem is solved"; instead, say "This report is a starting point for addressing the problem."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a starting point" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. It denotes the initial stage or basis for a subsequent action, process, or discussion. Ludwig AI confirms this is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

23%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a starting point" is a versatile noun phrase used to indicate the beginning or foundation of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English. It's prevalent in various contexts, especially in news and media, signifying its broad applicability. When using this phrase, it's essential to frame it as an initial step, not a final solution, and to clarify what will be built upon it. Alternatives like "initial step" or "beginning stage" can be used depending on the desired nuance. This phrase serves as a practical tool for clearly introducing ideas or actions that form the basis for further development or discussion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

starting place

A more literal synonym, denoting a location to begin.

initial step

Focuses on the very first action in a series.

foundation

Indicates a base upon which to build.

beginning stage

Emphasizes the early phase of a process.

cornerstone

Emphasizes the importance of the starting point to the overall structure.

launching pad

Highlights the idea of initiating a more significant venture.

point of origin

Stresses the source or root of something.

basic principle

Highlights a fundamental concept that serves as a start.

preliminary measure

Emphasizes an action taken in preparation for something else.

incipience

A more formal word referring to the beginning of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "a starting point" to introduce an initial idea, action, or piece of information. For example, "This research provides a starting point for understanding the issue."

What are some alternatives to saying "a starting point"?

You can use alternatives such as "initial step", "beginning stage", or "launching pad", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a starting point" in formal writing?

Yes, "a starting point" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a neutral and clear way to introduce an initial step or idea. However, more sophisticated alternatives might be preferred in some academic contexts.

What's the difference between "a starting point" and "a point of departure"?

"A starting point" generally refers to the beginning of a process or discussion. "A point of departure" often implies a shift or deviation from a previous state or idea. While they can sometimes be interchangeable, "a point of departure" suggests a more significant change in direction.