as the first step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as the first step" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate the initial action or phase in a process or series of steps. Example: "As the first step in our project, we need to conduct thorough research to gather relevant data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He wants tough sanctions against Iran as the first step.

The New York Times

Religious Jews saw it as the first step toward redemption.

The New York Times

Hailed as the first step towards exiting the bailout.

The Guardian

Ms. Moultrie saw this as the first step.

The New York Times

"We look at this as the first step," he said.

MIT Technology Review

She envisions this as the first step in localizing and promoting ESTEEM throughout the country.

Yale University

"Forgiveness as the First Step in Reconciliation," The Conversation, June 26 , 2015

Harvard University

Dr. Rader did not view the occasion as the first step toward romance either.

The New York Times - Style

I see the last four years as the first step towards real, fundamental change in America.

The Guardian

On Sunday, the party touted their results as the first step in a change sweeping Spain.

The Guardian

"I kind of see it as the first step to moon, Mars and beyond," Sam said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as the first step" to clearly signal the commencement of a series of actions, ensuring that readers understand the sequential nature of the process. It's useful in project management, instructions, and strategic planning to emphasize initiation.

Common error

Avoid using "as the first step" when describing very simple, self-evident actions that don't require emphasis on sequencing. For example, instead of saying "As the first step, I opened the door", simply say "I opened the door". This avoids unnecessary formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as the first step" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the beginning of a sequence or process. Ludwig shows its usage in various contexts, indicating its role in structuring information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

34%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as the first step" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to indicate the beginning of a sequence or process. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and very common, especially in news, scientific, and academic contexts. It functions to emphasize the initial action, guide the reader, and structure information. While generally neutral to formal, it's important to avoid overusing it in simple narratives. Alternatives include "as an initial measure" and "to begin with", depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as an initial measure

Replaces "step" with "measure", focusing on the action taken.

as a starting point

Emphasizes the beginning or origin of a process.

as a preliminary action

Highlights the preparatory nature of the initial step.

the first course of action

Emphasizes the active element of a first step

to begin with

A simpler way to indicate the start of a series of actions.

at the outset

Highlights the moment something begins

initially

An adverbial form indicating the first action.

in the beginning

Focuses on the temporal aspect of the start.

the point of departure

Figurative expression for the beginning.

for starters

Informal expression to mean the first thing you should do

FAQs

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

Use "as the first step" to introduce the initial action in a sequence, such as, "As the first step, gather all the necessary materials."

What phrases are similar to "as the first step"?

Similar phrases include "as an initial measure", "as a starting point", or "to begin with". These all indicate the beginning of a process.

Is "as first step" grammatically correct?

No, the correct phrase is "as the first step". The definite article "the" is necessary to specify which first step is being referred to.

When should I use "as the first step" versus a simpler phrase?

Use "as the first step" when you want to emphasize that an action is the beginning of a planned sequence. For single, straightforward actions, a simpler phrase may be more appropriate.