as a step forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a step forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It suggests progress or advancing to the next level in a process of achieving a goal. For example, you could write, "The company agreed to a new contract as a step forward in resolving the dispute."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I see this as a step forward".

The Guardian - Opinion

So the vote was seen as a step forward.

The New York Times

North Korea's participation in the Asian Games was welcomed as a step forward.

The Guardian

"I look at it as a step forward," Mr. Keilty said, who said he was underinsured.

The New York Times

However, the judgment should not be seen as a step forward for Northern Ireland.

The Guardian - Opinion

But at Dartmouth, it will take very little to view this year as a step forward.

The New York Times - Sports

The Republican senator Lindsey Graham described Obama's decision to revamp the tribunals as a step forward.

The Guardian

A British government source said of Obama's response: "We see this as a step forward.

The Guardian

It may be trumpeted as a step forward, but it doesn't always feel like it.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Even Facebook is no longer looking as great a step forward as it did five years ago.

The Guardian

So it's a Prius that takes a step forward as a Prius, and a Toyota that takes a step forward as a Toyota.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a step forward" to highlight specific actions or decisions that contribute to a larger goal or positive outcome. It effectively signals progress and direction.

Common error

Avoid using "as a step forward" for minor or self-evident advancements. Reserve it for situations where the progress is significant or contributes substantially to a broader objective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a step forward" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner or purpose of an action. It highlights that a particular action or decision is being taken to make progress or move towards a desired outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and widespread.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a step forward" is a versatile phrase used to highlight actions or decisions that contribute to progress or improvement. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically sound and widely used in various contexts. It is particularly common in "News & Media", "Science", and "Formal & Business" settings. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a significant advancement, and avoid overuse in trivial situations. Alternatives like ""as an advancement"" or ""as progress"" can offer nuanced variations depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as an advancement

Focuses on the idea of moving ahead or progressing positively.

as progress

Emphasizes the general concept of positive change or development.

as an improvement

Highlights the idea of something becoming better than it was before.

as a positive development

Highlights the favorable nature of the change.

as a move in the right direction

Indicates alignment with a desired outcome or goal.

as a way to advance

Suggests a method or strategy for achieving progress.

as a means of progression

Focuses on the methodology employed in order to progress.

as a facilitator of advancement

Presents the phrase as a way to enable or support progress.

as an upward trajectory

Emphasizes continuous improvement and positive growth.

as a road to improvement

Depicts the phrase as the means of positive change.

FAQs

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

Use "as a step forward" to describe an action or decision that contributes positively to achieving a goal. For example, "The new policy was implemented "as a step forward" in improving employee satisfaction".

What are some alternatives to using "as a step forward"?

Alternatives include "as an advancement", "as progress", or "as an improvement", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "as a step forward"?

While grammatically correct, "as a step forward" is most effective when highlighting substantial progress. Avoid using it for trivial or obvious advancements.

What's the difference between "as a step forward" and "as a way forward"?

"As a step forward" indicates a specific action that moves towards a goal, while "as a way forward" suggests a broader strategy or approach for achieving progress.