a stepping off point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stepping off point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a starting place or initial stage for further development or exploration. Example: "This research serves as a stepping off point for future studies in the field of renewable energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"The album is a stepping off point, a wide-angle lens on Latin music," he explained.

The New York Times

Eurosceptic MEP Daniel Hannan has argued Brexit should be viewed as a process, not a single moment of departure, and a Norway arrangement for the UK might be a stepping off point before the final rupture in years to come.

The Guardian

The changes also come at a time when the major technology companies are bringing back the idea of portals as a stepping off point to the web.

TechCrunch

The Kiwi Move ships with apps to begin with to prove to consumers its usefulness, though it's designed to be used as a stepping off point for developer ambitions.

TechCrunch

The iPad version is a stepping off point for that larger market play, and proof yet again that Banjo can iterate quickly when it sees an opportunity worth exploiting.

TechCrunch

Earlier this month, Facebook flat-out revealed in a slide deck obtained by Ad Age that its organic reach was waning, a fact which was used as a stepping off point for the sale of ads, which can drive greater brand visibility.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Others said she wanted more private investment and less of a Petrobras monopoly, though this will play badly in Rio – the headquarters of the nation's company, the stepping off point for pre-salt exploration and a key electoral battleground.

The Guardian

It is also the stepping off point for the isolated islets to the south of Crete.

The Guardian - Travel

We used that as our kind of benchmark, our stepping off point.

BBC

We arrived at our designated stepping off point on Saturday at 11 30 a.m., right on time, but the block was so packed it already had been penned off.

HuffPost

Trekkers who sign up receive two free nights — one pre-trip, one-post-trip — at El Mercado in Cuzco, the stepping off point for treks to explore the ancient Inca landmark.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a stepping off point" to clearly indicate the beginning of a process, project, or journey, where further development or exploration is expected. This phrase is particularly effective when you want to emphasize that the initial stage is just the beginning.

Common error

Avoid using "a stepping off point" when referring to a final destination or a complete solution. This phrase implies a beginning or a starting phase, not an end point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stepping off point" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies something as an initial stage or starting position. As Ludwig AI shows, it's often used to describe a foundation for future endeavors.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a stepping off point" is a versatile expression used to denote the beginning of a journey, project, or process. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and notes its common usage across diverse contexts, including news, science, and business. While phrases like "a starting point" and "a launching pad" serve as alternatives, "a stepping off point" uniquely emphasizes that the initial phase sets the stage for further development. The phrase functions primarily as a noun phrase and maintains a generally neutral register. This means you can use it in various writing styles as appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a starting point

A more generic term, simply indicating the beginning of something.

a launching pad

Emphasizes the idea of being propelled into something bigger or more advanced.

a springboard

Suggests a point that provides momentum or impetus for further action.

a point of departure

A slightly more formal and abstract way of indicating a beginning.

a foundation

Highlights the idea of building upon an initial base.

a gateway

Suggests a point of entry to something larger or more complex.

an initial phase

Focuses on the early stage of a process or project.

a kickoff

Implies an energetic start to something.

a catalyst

Emphasizes the role of initiating or accelerating a process.

an inception

Refers to the very beginning or start of something.

FAQs

How can I use "a stepping off point" in a sentence?

You can use "a stepping off point" to describe something that serves as a beginning for further development or exploration. For example, "This research will serve as "a stepping off point" for future studies."

What phrases are similar to "a stepping off point"?

Similar phrases include "a starting point", "a launching pad", and "a point of departure". The choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "stepping-off point" or "stepping off point" correct?

"Stepping-off point" and "stepping off point" are both acceptable, but "stepping-off point" (with a hyphen) is typically preferred when used as a compound adjective. However, "stepping off point" is more common in general usage as a noun.

When is it appropriate to use "a stepping off point" in formal writing?

The phrase "a stepping off point" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, but it is more common in neutral or slightly formal contexts. In highly formal or academic writing, consider alternatives like "a point of departure".