an initial stance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an initial stance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a preliminary position or viewpoint on a particular issue or topic. Example: "Before we dive into the debate, let's clarify our initial stance on the matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

European leaders have moved from an initial stance of denial about the seriousness of the region's debt problems through a series of sticking-plaster solutions as the rot spread.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

City Press's initial stance had an unlikely defender in Julius Malema, the expelled president of the ANC's youth wing.

The Guardian

I do hope that the AMA reconsiders its initial stance on a public health insurance option.

Huffington Post

His initial stance was probably an ideological one, and likely influenced by the popular actions of his predecessor.

Vice

In her remarks on Tuesday, Nauert denied that the secretary of state, Rex Tillerson, was taking a position that entirely contradicted the initial stance adopted by Trump.

The Guardian

Any promise, tacit or otherwise, of a bail-out by others would only encourage more profligacy (a view that mirrors Ford's initial stance towards New York).

The Economist

But a chance encounter with a stranger this weekend made me rethink my initial stance.

The New York Times

In the soleus, it was manifested by both a lowered threshold and increased activation during initial stance.

BioMed Research International

The court's initial stance, taken in 2006, sent a shudder of fear through Asian debt markets.

The Economist

Finally, the Vatican's top bioethics official, Archbishop Rino Fisichella, also criticized the initial stance, saying the "credibility of our teaching took a blow as it appeared, in the eyes of many, to be insensitive, incomprehensible and lacking mercy".

The New York Times

Some of Verizon's customers said they were outraged by the company's initial stance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an initial stance", clearly indicate whether this stance evolved or remained consistent throughout the discussion or process. This provides context and clarity to your argument.

Common error

Avoid presenting "an initial stance" as a definitive conclusion. Clearly differentiate between preliminary positions and final decisions to prevent misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an initial stance" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a position or viewpoint that is taken at the beginning of a process or discussion. Ludwig confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an initial stance" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a preliminary position or viewpoint. Ludwig's analysis indicates that it is most commonly found in news and media contexts. While considered correct and usable, its frequency is relatively rare. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by differentiating it from final decisions and providing context for its evolution. Consider using alternatives like "a preliminary standpoint" or "an opening position" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a preliminary standpoint

Replaces "stance" with "standpoint" and "initial" with "preliminary", emphasizing the tentative nature of the position.

an opening position

Substitutes "initial stance" with "opening position", focusing on the beginning nature of the viewpoint.

a starting point

Uses a more general term, "starting point", to refer to an initial position in a discussion or negotiation.

a first inclination

Replaces "stance" with "inclination", suggesting a preliminary leaning or tendency.

a tentative viewpoint

Emphasizes the provisional and uncertain nature of the "initial stance".

a primary attitude

Uses "attitude" instead of "stance", indicating an initial feeling or opinion.

a baseline perspective

Highlights the fundamental and foundational aspect of the initial position.

an original posture

Replaces "stance" with "posture", suggesting an initial way of holding oneself or one's viewpoint.

a basic approach

Focuses on the fundamental method or strategy taken at the beginning.

a preliminary assessment

Shifts the focus to an early evaluation or judgment of a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "an initial stance" in a sentence?

You can use "an initial stance" to describe a preliminary position or viewpoint on a particular issue. For example, "The company's "an initial stance" was to deny any wrongdoing."

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

Alternatives include "a preliminary standpoint", "an opening position", or "a starting point", depending on the context.

Which is correct, "an initial stance" or "a initial stance"?

"An initial stance" is correct. The indefinite article "an" is used before words that begin with a vowel sound, such as "initial".

What's the difference between "an initial stance" and "a final decision"?

"An initial stance" refers to a preliminary viewpoint or position, while "a final decision" represents a conclusive resolution or judgment.