as a first step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a first step" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to describe an action that must be taken before any other steps can be taken. For example, "As a first step, we must hire a new team member with the necessary qualifications to fill the position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As a first step, the I.L.O.

The New York Times

As a first step to address conflict, slow down.

Columbia University

You may not, at least not as a first step.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I see this as a first step," Ms. Scacco said.

The New York Times

Farron welcomed the measures as a first step.

The Guardian

As a first step, he tried to move his fingers.

The New Yorker

"We did this as a first step," he said.

The New York Times

" She advises creating distance as a first step.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As a first step, microbiological data were log10-transformed.

Nature

As a first step, he built a biological toggle circuit.

MIT Technology Review

The authorities praised the legislation as a first step.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a first step", clearly define the subsequent steps to provide a comprehensive plan or process.

Common error

Avoid using "as a first step" without outlining or implying what the following steps will be. This can leave your audience wondering about the overall plan and reduce the impact of your initial action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a first step" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the initial action in a sequence. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is commonly and correctly used to introduce the beginning of a process.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Academia

33%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as a first step" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to introduce an initial action in a sequence. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage across diverse contexts. Predominantly found in news and academic sources, it signals the commencement of a plan or process. While interchangeable with alternatives like "initially" or "to begin with", it's crucial to follow up with subsequent steps for clarity. Avoiding its use without further context prevents potential ambiguity. Overall, "as a first step" is a valuable tool for structuring information and guiding your audience through a series of actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initially

This is a single-word adverb that directly replaces the idea of the first action.

to begin with

This phrase is slightly more conversational but conveys the same meaning of starting a sequence of actions.

as an initial measure

Replaces "step" with "measure", implying a more formal or planned approach.

as a starting point

Focuses on the idea of beginning a process or journey.

in the beginning

Highlights the temporal aspect of starting something.

at the outset

Implies a formal beginning, often used in official contexts.

to kick things off

An informal phrase for initiating something.

first and foremost

Emphasizes the priority or importance of the initial action.

primarily

Indicates the main or most important initial action.

before anything else

Stresses the temporal priority of the action.

FAQs

How can I use "as a first step" in a sentence?

Use "as a first step" to introduce an initial action that is part of a larger plan or process. For example, "As a first step, we will conduct a thorough assessment of the current situation."

What can I say instead of "as a first step"?

You can use alternatives like "initially", "to begin with", or "as an initial measure" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "as a first step"?

While "as a first step" is commonly used, it can sometimes be redundant if the context already implies that it's the beginning of a process. Consider whether the "as a first step" phrase adds value or if the sentence is clear without it.

What's the difference between "as a first step" and "as a final step"?

"As a first step" indicates the beginning of a process, while "as a last step" indicates the concluding action. They are used to signal opposite ends of a sequence of actions.