a worthy step forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a worthy step forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action or decision that is considered beneficial or progressive in a particular context. Example: "The new policy implemented by the company is a worthy step forward in promoting sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's a worthy step forward for EVs.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Mayer says some of the intermediate reforms proposed -- like equipping the surveillance court with a technological expert who might be able to advise it on the NSA's claims -- sound like worthy steps forward.

Huffington Post

A win tomorrow, a step forward".

Los Angeles Times

A step forward, but a baby step.

Forbes

a big step forward.

The New York Times

That's a real step forward".

The New Yorker

All this is a huge step forward.

The New York Times

But "it is a great step forward.

The New York Times

But it is a big step forward.

The Economist

It is a historic step forward".

The New York Times - Sports

So NCTC is a positive step forward.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a worthy step forward" when you want to emphasize not only that progress has been made, but also that the progress is morally or ethically good and deserves recognition.

Common error

Avoid using "worthy" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. While acceptable, it can sometimes sound slightly less sophisticated than alternatives like "significant" or "valuable".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a worthy step forward" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object. It qualifies an action or decision, indicating its positive progression and moral value. As stated by Ludwig AI, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a worthy step forward" is a phrase used to commend progress that is both effective and ethically sound. While grammatically correct and found in reputable news sources, according to Ludwig, its usage is relatively rare. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts, indicating approval of a particular action or development. While acceptable for formal and professional communication, alternative phrases, like "a valuable advancement", may be preferable in academic or highly formal settings. Therefore, use "a worthy step forward" when emphasizing the moral value of a positive action or change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a commendable move forward

Replaces "worthy" with "commendable", emphasizing the praiseworthy nature of the action.

a valuable advancement

Substitutes "step" with "advancement", focusing on the progress made and "worthy" with "valuable", stressing its usefulness.

a significant stride

Replaces "step" with "stride", suggesting a more substantial advancement.

a notable improvement

Focuses on the positive change resulting from the action, rather than the action itself.

a positive development

General term indicating a favorable change or event.

a welcome progression

Highlights the positive reception of the advancement.

a meaningful leap

Suggests a more considerable and impactful advancement.

a constructive change

Emphasizes the beneficial nature and positive impact of the alteration.

a laudable effort

Shifts focus to the effort made and its praiseworthiness.

a worthwhile endeavor

Highlights the value and merit of the undertaking.

FAQs

How can I use "a worthy step forward" in a sentence?

You can use "a worthy step forward" to describe an action or decision that is considered beneficial or progressive. For example, "The company's new sustainability initiative is "a worthy step forward" in reducing its carbon footprint."

What are some alternatives to "a worthy step forward"?

Alternatives include "a commendable move forward", "a valuable advancement", or "a significant stride", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a worthy step forward" formal or informal?

"A worthy step forward" is suitable for both neutral and professional contexts. While not overly formal, it conveys a sense of considered judgment and positive evaluation. In a very formal text, you could use other expressions, like "a significant improvement".

What makes something "a worthy step forward"?

For something to be considered "a worthy step forward", it should represent progress that is not only effective but also morally or ethically sound. The term implies that the advancement is commendable and aligns with positive values.