a welcome move

USAGE SUMMARY

"a welcome move" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an action or decision that is seen as beneficial. For example, "The introduction of the new policy was seen as a welcome move by many in the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is a welcome move.

The Guardian

This will be a welcome move for passengers".

The Guardian

In conservative societies, this is a welcome move.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The charge is a welcome move," says Powell.

The Guardian

"This is a welcome move towards collaboration," he says.

The Guardian

It is a welcome move towards the common interest.

The Guardian - Opinion

A welcome move towards greater financial transparency brought these more into the open.

The Economist

"It's definitely a welcome move in the right direction," Bseisu told Bloomberg Television after the announcement.

The Guardian

That would be a welcome move; but it hardly seems imminent.

The Economist

It was a welcome move that made Mr Peña look good.

The Economist

And so it was, in a welcome move away from the celebrity "starchitect" worship editions.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To add specificity, follow "a welcome move" with a prepositional phrase that details why the move is welcome. For example, "a welcome move toward greater transparency".

Common error

While "a welcome move" is appropriate in many situations, avoid overusing it in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "a positive step" or "a favorable development" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a welcome move" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object to describe an action, decision, or policy that is viewed favorably. According to Ludwig, its usage is widely recognized and accepted in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a welcome move" is a widely accepted and commonly used expression to convey approval or positive sentiment toward an action, decision, or policy. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts, predominantly in news and media, indicating a neutral register. To effectively employ this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a sense of approval or satisfaction. While versatile, avoid overuse by incorporating synonyms like "a positive step" or "a favorable development". By following these guidelines, you can confidently and appropriately incorporate the phrase "a welcome move" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a positive step

Focuses on the advancement aspect of the move, implying progress.

a favorable development

Highlights the advantageous nature of the change.

a gratifying action

Emphasizes the satisfaction derived from the deed.

a propitious decision

Indicates the advantageous timing or circumstances surrounding the choice.

an encouraging sign

Stresses the hopeful implications of the event.

a heartening gesture

Highlights the positive emotional impact of the action.

a beneficial measure

Concentrates on the helpful or advantageous aspect of the action.

a constructive action

Emphasizes the building or improving nature of the move.

a valuable contribution

Focuses on the helpful or advantageous aspect of the contribution.

a commendable act

Highlights the praiseworthy nature of the deed.

FAQs

How can I use "a welcome move" in a sentence?

Use "a welcome move" to describe an action or decision that is considered positive or beneficial. For example: "The company's decision to increase employee benefits was "a welcome move"."

What can I say instead of "a welcome move"?

You can use alternatives like "a positive step", "a favorable development", or "a gratifying action depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a welcome move" in formal writing?

Yes, "a welcome move" is suitable for formal writing, including business reports, news articles, and academic papers. It's a clear and professional way to express approval.

What's the difference between "a welcome move" and "a good idea"?

"A welcome move" typically refers to a specific action or decision that has been made, whereas "a good idea" is a more general term that can refer to a plan or concept that hasn't necessarily been implemented yet.