an initial agenda

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an initial agenda" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the first set of topics or items to be discussed in a meeting or event. Example: "Before we start the meeting, let's review an initial agenda to ensure we cover all necessary points."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

But the Knicks had no salary-cap room when free agency opened and an initial agenda that prioritized the 2012 market.

The New York Times - Sports

After 10 months of preparation — hiring staff, creating a management structure, laying out an initial agenda — the bureau officially hit the starting gate on Thursday, a year to the day after the Dodd-Frank financial reform bill was signed into law by President Obama.

The New York Times

The paper concludes by setting out an initial agenda for the new discipline.

Measurement

Start working with your leadership team to immediately to define your mission and objectives, set priorities and develop an initial agenda.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The new association's initial agenda included a league-wide minimum salary, plus a per diem when teams were on the road, that uniforms and equipment be paid for and maintained at the clubs' expense, and continued payment of salaries when players were injured.

Wikipedia

Second, the creation and scale-up of OSCCs was arguably a mix between bottom-up and top-down approaches, where initial agenda setting came from bottom-up coalitions of NGO and health staff, while detailed policy formulation was left to MOH.

Health Research Policy and Systems

The organizational committee proposed a rather academic agenda geared toward cultural issues for the assembly; this initial agenda was vetoed by the delegates.

Wikipedia

But over time Goodell has made progress on his initial agenda.

The Guardian - Sport

Whatever the Administration's initial agenda, Israel seems to have been after something more.

The New Yorker

A spokesman for the Maoists said on Monday that the two sides had differed over the initial agenda for the talks.

The New York Times

The challenge became more difficult when it became clear late in 2008 that Mr. Obama's initial agenda would not be one of his choosing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an initial agenda" to provide a roadmap for new projects or initiatives, ensuring all team members are aligned on the primary objectives from the start.

Common error

Avoid treating "an initial agenda" as a rigid document. Emphasize its flexibility, allowing for adjustments and additions as discussions evolve and new priorities emerge. An agenda should be a starting point, not a constraint.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an initial agenda" functions as a noun phrase, where "initial" modifies the noun "agenda". It typically specifies a preliminary or starting version of a plan, program, or list of topics to be addressed. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an initial agenda" is a commonly used noun phrase to denote a preliminary plan or set of topics, suitable for a variety of contexts, as validated by Ludwig AI. It is often used in news, scientific, and general discussions. To use the phrase effectively, remember that it represents a flexible starting point, not a rigid plan. Consider using alternatives like "a preliminary plan" or "a draft agenda" for nuanced meaning. Being aware of the common error of treating it as static can greatly improve communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a draft agenda

"Draft" indicates a preliminary version that may be revised.

a preliminary plan

Replaces "agenda" with a more general term "plan" and "initial" with "preliminary", indicating it's a starting point.

a starting agenda

Uses "starting" as a synonym for "initial", emphasizing the beginning stage of the agenda.

a tentative schedule

Replaces "agenda" with "schedule", implying a timeline and structure; "tentative" suggests it's subject to change.

the first order of business

Emphasizes the priority and sequence of items to be addressed initially.

an opening itinerary

Uses "itinerary" suggesting a detailed plan, "opening" indicating the beginning part.

a provisional program

"Provisional" suggests the plan is subject to change; "program" is a structured list of items.

the preliminary items

Focuses on the items themselves rather than the broader plan.

the kickoff plan

"Kickoff" suggests the beginning or start of a plan.

a pilot scheme

Pilot usually refers to a small-scale, preliminary project.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "an initial agenda"?

You can use alternatives like "a preliminary plan", "a draft agenda", or "a tentative schedule" depending on the context.

How is "an initial agenda" different from a final agenda?

"An initial agenda" represents the starting point of planning, subject to changes and additions. A final agenda is the conclusive plan after revisions and considerations.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "an initial agenda"?

It's appropriate when introducing the first draft of a plan or schedule, implying that it's open to modifications. It sets expectations for a developing plan rather than a fixed one.

Can "an initial agenda" be informal?

Yes, "an initial agenda" can be informal, particularly in casual settings. However, it's important to ensure that all participants understand the planned topics, regardless of formality.