a welcome step

USAGE SUMMARY

"a welcome step" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to an action, plan, or process that has been favorably received. For example, you could say, "The government's decision to increase the minimum wage was a welcome step towards improving the lives of working people."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

This is a welcome step.

Independent

This would indeed be a welcome step forward.

The Guardian - Opinion

Environmental campaigners called the proposed agreement here a welcome step.

The New York Times

Yesterday, one advocate called the increases "a welcome step".

The New York Times

"American Dreamer" is a welcome step in that direction.

The New York Times - Books

This ban is a welcome step in the right direction.

The Guardian - Opinion

The FA supports these regulations and they are a welcome step in the right direction.

BBC

That's a welcome step toward making off-balance-sheet entities safe and rare.

The New York Times

This is a welcome step in protecting the harsh but delicate polar environment.

The New York Times

This itself is a welcome step towards greater understanding of a complicated country.

The Economist

Omar Abdullah, the embattled chief minister of the state, called the policy changes "a welcome step".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a welcome step" to positively acknowledge actions, decisions, or changes. It expresses approval and encouragement.

Common error

Avoid using "a welcome step" excessively in situations where a more nuanced or critical evaluation is necessary. Overusing positive language can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a welcome step" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or appositive. As Ludwig AI identifies, this phrase is used to positively acknowledge actions or decisions. Examples show it follows verbs like "is", "called", or "described".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a welcome step" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express approval and encouragement regarding a particular action or decision. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, especially in news and media, science, and formal business settings. When writing, it's best to use this phrase to positively acknowledge actions while avoiding overuse in overly positive contexts. Alternatives include "a positive move" or "a step in the right direction". Remember, while expressing positivity is good, ensure the context genuinely warrants such an evaluation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a step in the right direction

Indicates progress towards a desired outcome, similar to the original phrase but more descriptive.

a positive move

Focuses on the action being beneficial and forward-thinking.

a favorable development

Emphasizes the positive progression or unfolding of events.

a promising sign

Highlights the potential for future success or improvement.

a beneficial action

Stresses the advantageous nature of the deed.

a commendable initiative

Focuses on the praiseworthy and proactive aspect of the measure.

a valuable contribution

Highlights the worth and impact of the addition or action.

a significant improvement

Emphasizes the notable enhancement or progress made.

a turn for the better

Focuses on the change from a negative to a more positive situation.

a cause for optimism

Highlights the reason for a hopeful outlook.

FAQs

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

You can use "a welcome step" to express approval of an action or decision, such as, "The new policy is "a welcome step" towards environmental conservation."

What are some alternatives to "a welcome step"?

Alternatives include "a positive move", "a favorable development", or "a step in the right direction", depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to describe an action as "a welcome step"?

While generally positive, "a welcome step" should be used judiciously. Ensure that the action genuinely warrants approval and that the phrase aligns with the overall tone and context of your writing. Otherwise, consider using more neutral alternatives.

What's the difference between "a welcome step" and "a good start"?

"A welcome step" acknowledges a specific action or decision as positive, whereas "a good start" emphasizes the beginning of a process or initiative. While both are positive, "a good start" implies that further actions are needed to achieve the desired outcome, and "a welcome step" is more of a confirmation that something good has happened.