an initial thrust of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an initial thrust of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the first push or drive of something, often in a metaphorical sense, such as in discussions about projects, movements, or ideas. Example: "The team provided an initial thrust of innovation that set the project on a successful path."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The biggest weight the Americans have managed to get into orbit so far, not counting the final stage of the accompanying rocket, is 400 pounds, and the most powerful launching vehicle they have been able to call upon is the Atlas intercontinental missile with an initial thrust of 360,000 pounds.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"We are building a new 250-faculty campus with an initial thrust on interdisciplinary research in Hyderabad," says Mustansir Barma, theoretical physicist and director of Tata Institute of Fundamental Research TIFRR) in Mumbai, one of India's oldest and premier basic research institutes.

Science Magazine

Rather than an all-or-nothing nuclear exchange, this envisaged a staged escalation of NATO's response to a Soviet invasion, based on containing the initial thrust of the Soviet forces and warning them of the consequences of further encroachment on NATO's territory.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This certainly seemed to be the initial thrust of government thinking during Labour's first term.

The Economist

Roosevelt was candid in admitting that the initial thrust of the New Deal was experimental.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But the initial thrust of change is nowhere better depicted than in Help!, a film that encouraged nothing less than the re-imagination of the Englishman.

Independent

Instead, the initial thrust of their economic policy will be on keeping the economy from falling into a recession that's nastier than most of us have ever experienced.

The New York Times

The accusation that the plan would leave behind "millions of middle-class seniors" is partly based on the fact that the initial thrust of his plan would involve aid to states to help low-income elderly.

The New York Times

But the initial thrust of the Bush approach — as laid out in his own comments, in speeches and memos by various assistants, and in material put out by groups such as the Alliance for Worker Retirement Security — is clear enough.

The New Yorker

Matadors' initial thrust of the sword frequently misses the fatal artery, causing further internal bleeding and a slow agonizing death.

Huffington Post

The initial thrust of Colonial America's "Great Awakening" (1730-1740s) fonused on "reviving" the religious fervor of church members, and was immediately followed by the trail of itinerate evangelists who went from town to town pitching their tents and preaching "hellfire and damnation" to the unchurched.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an initial thrust of", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being propelled or initiated. For example, "The project gained an initial thrust of momentum from the successful pilot phase."

Common error

Avoid limiting the phrase to physical forces. "Thrust" can metaphorically represent momentum, direction, or impetus. Using it only for literal physical pushes neglects its broader applicability to ideas, movements, and initiatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an initial thrust of" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes the force or impetus that starts something in motion, whether literally or figuratively. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an initial thrust of" is a grammatically sound phrase, though relatively rare in occurrence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It is employed to describe the beginning force or impetus behind something, whether a project, idea, or physical action. While versatile, the phrase finds frequent application in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, indicating a formal to neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines what is being propelled and consider related phrases like "a primary impetus for" or "a starting impulse toward" for subtle shifts in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a primary impetus for

Focuses on the driving force behind something, rather than the literal push.

a starting impulse toward

Emphasizes the beginning burst of energy or motivation.

the original impetus behind

Highlights the initial cause or reason for something's commencement.

a preliminary surge in

Suggests a sudden increase or rush at the beginning.

the first wave of

Implies a sequential progression, with this being the opening stage.

an early push for

Highlights the effort exerted at the commencement of an activity.

the kickoff for

Emphasizes the start or beginning of an activity or project.

the genesis of

Indicates the origin or mode of formation of something.

an inaugural drive toward

Suggests a campaign or strong effort undertaken at the beginning.

a nascent surge of

Highlights the early and developing increase or rush.

FAQs

How can I use "an initial thrust of" in a sentence?

You can use "an initial thrust of" to describe the starting force or momentum behind a project, idea, or movement. For example, "The marketing campaign provided "an initial thrust of" visibility for the new product."

What are some alternatives to "an initial thrust of"?

Some alternatives to "an initial thrust of" include "a primary impetus for", "a starting impulse toward", or "the original impetus behind", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "initial thrust" or "initial impetus"?

Both "initial thrust" and "initial impetus" can be used, but "thrust" often suggests a more directed or forceful beginning, while "impetus" implies a more general driving force. Choose the word that best fits the specific context.

Can "an initial thrust of" be used to describe a physical force?

Yes, "an initial thrust of" can describe a physical force, such as the thrust of a rocket engine. However, it's more commonly used metaphorically to describe the beginning momentum of a project or idea.