a strong step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a strong step" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a decisive or impactful action taken towards achieving a goal or making progress. Example: "Implementing the new policy was a strong step towards improving workplace safety."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was a strong step forward".

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Lewis's appointment, she added, is "a strong step in the right direction".

The New York Times

It is time New York took a strong step against violence directed toward specific groups.

The New York Times

"This legislation is a strong step towards protecting and repairing America's troubled waters".

The New York Times - Sports

This is a strong step towards creating an equal playing ground between public and private providers.

The Guardian

The new C-Max and Grand C-Max represent a strong step forward and augur well for the next Focus.

Independent

McNabb took a strong step forward to freeze Trotter and sprinted toward the right, front corner of the end zone, the farthest point from Arrington.

The New York Times - Sports

"This is a strong step in the right direction," said Daniel Berman of Medicine Sans Frontiers, who has been working on the drug issue for two years.

The New York Times

In a videotaped message given to gay community leaders at a dinner on May 17, Mr. Paterson described the move as "a strong step toward marriage equality".

The New York Times

But if they have in fact established an official or unofficial block on our films that would be a strong step backwards".

The New York Times

"Consuming trans fat is linked to coronary heart disease, and today we are taking a strong step toward creating a healthier future for California".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a strong step" to describe actions that have a significant and positive impact on a situation or project. For example, "Implementing this new software is "a strong step" toward improving efficiency."

Common error

While versatile, using "a strong step" too frequently in casual conversations can sound overly formal. Consider alternatives like "good move" or "smart idea" for informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strong step" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where 'strong' modifies 'step'. As Ludwig AI indicates, it describes a decisive action towards a specific goal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a strong step" is a commonly used and grammatically correct English expression. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts. It functions as a noun phrase, typically describing a significant and impactful action taken towards achieving a goal. It's most frequently found in news and media, formal business, and scientific publications. While versatile, it's essential to consider the context and choose suitable alternatives in informal conversations. Remember to use it when you want to emphasize the positive and effective nature of a particular action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant advance

Emphasizes the magnitude of the progress made.

a decisive move

Highlights the firmness and determination behind the action.

a major breakthrough

Implies overcoming a significant obstacle.

a notable stride

Suggests a confident and purposeful advancement.

a considerable improvement

Focuses on the positive change resulting from the action.

a substantial leap

Emphasizes the distance covered or the magnitude of the jump.

a positive development

Highlights the favorable nature of the event.

a progressive action

Implies forward-thinking and advancement.

an impactful measure

Focuses on the effect or influence of the action.

a firm resolution

Highlights the determination and commitment behind the decision.

FAQs

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

You can use "a strong step" to describe a significant action taken toward a goal. For example, "The company's investment in renewable energy is "a strong step" towards sustainability."

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

You can use alternatives like "a significant advance", "a decisive move", or "a major breakthrough" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a strong step forward" or "a significant step forward"?

Both "a strong step forward" and "a significant step forward" are correct. "Strong" emphasizes the power or impact of the step, while "significant" emphasizes the importance or magnitude. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "a strong step" and "a step in the right direction"?

"A strong step" implies a more substantial and impactful action than "a step in the right direction". The latter simply indicates movement toward a desired outcome, while the former suggests significant progress.