a step away

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a step away" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate proximity to a goal or a state, often implying that something is very close to being achieved or completed. Example: "After months of hard work, we are just a step away from launching the new product."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The boy took a step away.

The New Yorker

Maddy takes a step away.

The New Yorker

Scientific narrative was only a step away.

Nature

Chickens is a step away from that more grossout comedy".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Is a step away from any kind of colouring in.

The Guardian

Three Monkeys is a step away from this.

The Guardian - Film

Refusing uniforms is a step away from all that.

The Guardian

Fears that barbarism was only a step away are ubiquitous.

The New York Times

"The projects are a step away from changing the NHS.

The Guardian

Philadelphia is a step away from being Rutgers.

The New York Times - Sports

A step away from reality — consensus reality — in the interests of seeing it better".

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a step away" to emphasize that a goal or outcome is very close to being realized. For instance, "The company is a step away from profitability after the restructuring."

Common error

Avoid using "a step away" when the proximity to the goal or outcome is unclear. Be specific about what is being approached. Instead of saying "Success is a step away", specify "The team is a step away from securing the contract."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a step away" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or adjective, indicating a state of near completion or close proximity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Academic

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a step away" is a versatile and commonly used expression to denote that something is very close to being achieved or realized. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and suitability for various contexts. The phrase is predominantly found in News & Media. When using "a step away", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being approached to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "on the verge", "close to achieving", and "nearly there" can be used for similar effect. The phrase carries a neutral tone and is widely understood, making it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the verge

Focuses on the imminence of an event or state, similar to being very close to something.

close to achieving

Emphasizes the proximity to reaching a specific goal or accomplishment.

nearly there

Suggests that the destination or goal is almost reached.

within reach

Indicates that something is attainable or easily accessible.

on the horizon

Implies that something is approaching and will soon be realized.

just around the corner

Indicates that something is very near in time or space.

approaching quickly

Highlights the rapid progress toward a particular state or goal.

progressing steadily

Focuses on the consistent advancement towards a desired outcome.

advancing rapidly

Emphasizes the quick movement toward a specific target or objective.

transitioning towards

Suggests a movement from one state to another, highlighting the process of change.

FAQs

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

Use "a step away" to indicate that something is very close to being achieved or is imminent. For example, "The project is "a step away" from completion after the final revisions."

What can I say instead of "a step away"?

You can use alternatives like "on the verge", "close to achieving", or "nearly there" depending on the context. These phrases similarly convey proximity to a goal or state.

Is it correct to say "one step away" instead of "a step away"?

Both "one step away" and "a step away" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably, although "a step away" is more common in general usage.

How does "a step away" differ from "a mile away"?

"A step away" indicates something is very close and easily attainable, while "a mile away" implies a significant distance or difference. The former suggests nearness, while the latter suggests remoteness.