an important step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an important step" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a significant action or decision that contributes to a larger goal or process. Example: "Implementing this new policy is an important step towards improving workplace safety."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's an important step".

The New York Times

Today was an important step.

The New York Times - Sports

"That was an important step.

The Guardian - Sport

This was an important step.

The Economist

"But it's an important step.

The New York Times

But it is an important step forward".

The New York Times

But the move is an important step.

The New York Times

"This would be an important step forward.

The New York Times

"It's an important step for us.

The New York Times

But this work is an important step.

The Economist

This was an important step for me.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "significant move" or "crucial action" to add variety to your writing and avoid repetition.

Common error

Avoid using "an important step" when the action is minor or inconsequential. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and credibility. Instead, consider using phrases like "a helpful measure" or "a useful contribution".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an important step" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an appositive. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is used to describe an action or event that is significant and contributes to a larger process or goal. It highlights the importance of a particular action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Academia

17%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an important step" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the significance of an action or event. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various reputable sources. It is particularly common in news, media, and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates the goal this step contributes to, and consider synonyms like "significant move" or "crucial action" to add variety. Avoid overstating the importance of minor actions to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant move

Emphasizes the action taken rather than the progression towards a goal.

a crucial action

Highlights the critical nature and necessity of the action.

a key development

Focuses on the progress made or the evolution of a situation.

a vital component

Stresses the necessity of something as part of a larger system or process.

a necessary measure

Highlights the required nature of an action or decision.

a pivotal moment

Focuses on the turning point or critical juncture reached.

a fundamental shift

Indicates a significant change in approach or perspective.

a marked improvement

Highlights the positive progress resulting from an action.

a breakthrough achievement

Emphasizes the successful overcoming of obstacles and achieving a significant result.

a considerable stride

Focuses on the substantial advancement made.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "an important step"?

You can use alternatives like "a significant move", "a crucial action", or "a key development" depending on the context.

How do I use "an important step" in a sentence?

You can use "an important step" to describe an action that contributes significantly to a larger goal. For example: "Implementing this new policy is "an important step" towards improving workplace safety."

What's the difference between "an important step" and "a necessary measure"?

"An important step" highlights progress, while "a necessary measure" emphasizes that the action is required or essential. The first refers more to the value added and the second to the need to achieve something.

Is "an important step" formal or informal?

"An important step" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it appears more frequently in news and media, professional and academic writing.