an initial setup

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an initial setup" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the first configuration or arrangement of something, often in a technical or procedural context. Example: "Before we can start the project, we need to complete an initial setup of the software."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Landlords pay for an initial setup as well as a monthly subscription fee based on the number of units at each property.

The New York Times

Each node in the sensor network goes through an initial setup phase constructing, the -radius cluster centered at.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Each procedure will have resource implications for both an initial setup of a dosimetry service and for ongoing support.

EJNMMI Physics

For about $2,800 a month plus an initial setup fee of $5,000, ISPs can get UUNet newsgroups delivered via satellite at about 2 mbps.

Forbes

During an initial setup process, you designate a handful of key locations, or geofences, that your children often visit — their school, home, a best friend's house, etc.

TechCrunch

During an initial setup process, you designate a handful of key locations, or geofences, that your children often visit — their school, home, a best friend's house, etc.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

A Initial setup: - Open the FoleyManometer LV pouch and close the tube clamp.

Annals of Intensive Care

To use the little black box, you need an electrical outlet, a broadband connection, a spare port on your router, a computer for the initial setup, a phone, a Skype account and, optionally, a landline.

The New York Times

But it works, and it captures your workout results via seamless syncing in my experience after a painless initial setup process.

TechCrunch

You plug it in, connect the HDMI cable, and turn it on — after a basic initial setup of language and time, you're in.

TechCrunch

In this paper, we presented a proactive channel access MAC for an ad hoc CR network having a REM for initial setup and showed how this MAC can be used to keep the interference experienced by the PUs at a low level while providing better throughput for the SUs.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing technical documentation, clearly outline the steps involved in the "an initial setup" to ensure users can easily follow the instructions.

Common error

Before detailing "an initial setup", ensure you've listed all necessary prerequisites like software versions or hardware specifications; omitting these can cause confusion and hinder successful implementation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an initial setup" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies the first stage of configuring a system or process, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

31%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an initial setup" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe the preliminary configuration of a system or process. Ludwig's analysis reveals its frequent use in scientific and news contexts, with a register ranging from professional to neutral. When using this phrase, ensure all prerequisites are clearly defined to avoid confusion. Alternatives such as "a preliminary arrangement" or "a starting configuration" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Overall, according to Ludwig, the phrase is a valuable tool for clearly communicating the starting point of a process.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a preliminary arrangement

Emphasizes the tentative or early nature of the arrangement.

a starting configuration

Highlights the configuration aspect at the beginning of a process.

a setup phase

More concise, focusing on the phase of setting up.

the initial configuration

Focuses specifically on the configuration aspect at the start.

a first stage

Highlights the temporal aspect of being the first in a series of stages.

a basic installation

Refers to the fundamental installation process.

a primary arrangement

Indicates the first and foremost arrangement.

the preliminary steps

Emphasizes the initial actions taken.

an introductory procedure

Highlights the procedural aspect of the beginning.

a kickoff configuration

Informal, emphasizes the start or beginning of the configuration.

FAQs

How can I describe "an initial setup" in simpler terms?

You can use phrases like "preliminary steps", "starting configuration", or "setup phase" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "an initial setup" or "the initial setup"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "an initial setup" is appropriate when referring to one of several possible initial setups, while "the initial setup" refers to a specific, defined setup.

What is the purpose of "an initial setup" in a process?

The purpose of "an initial setup" is to configure the system or environment, lay the groundwork, and ensure everything is ready for subsequent steps.

What are some common problems during "an initial setup"?

Common problems include missing dependencies, incorrect configurations, and compatibility issues. Addressing these requires careful planning and thorough documentation.