at an initial stage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at an initial stage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the early phase of a process, project, or development. Example: "The project is at an initial stage, and we are still gathering data and resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

The Israeli military said an investigation was still at an initial stage.

The New York Times

Most of the programs were also tested at an initial stage with small size samples and minimum technical innovation.

International Journal of Information Management

The model can be applied to the drying, at an initial stage, of coated laminates with a gentle drying regime.

Chemical Engineering Science

Non-uniform deposition primarily occurs at an initial stage in which the reaction is dominated by mass transfer.

Electrochimica Acta

We suggest that the structural changes in β-lactam inhibitor binding reflect the state of the enzyme at an initial stage of substrate binding to the active site.

Structure

The oligomers were precipitated first by the reaction-induced crystallization to form the highly crystalline lath-like crystals at an initial stage of polymerization.

Polymer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

At a very initial stage of corrosion reaction, dissolved oxygen contributes to cathodic reaction, whereas H+ formed through Eqs.

International Journal of Mechanical and Materials Engineering

"A decision was taken that, while we sort new owners, the BBL would run the franchise in the interim period". He continued: "We believe there's a viable franchise there for somebody to take on and we have had some expressions of interest already, but they are at a very initial stage". Haydn Cook took over the Jets in September.

BBC

These findings support the scenario that C1b, C1c and C1d (and their distinguishing mutational motifs) most likely arose early – either in Beringia or at a very initial stage of the Paleoindian southward migration [14].

Plosone

Collaboration, however, with stakeholders outside the education sector to address causes of low enrolment of girls in education is still at a very initial stage.

Unicef

A porous zirconium oxide nanostructure is always formed at an initial anodization stage, but the degree of interpore dissolution determines whether the final morphology is nanoporous or nanotubular.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at an initial stage", ensure it's followed by a clear description of what is being initiated or developed. This provides context and clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact of something "at an initial stage". Be realistic about the progress and potential, as overstating it can undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at an initial stage" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause, indicating the timing or phase of an action or state. Ludwig examples show its use in describing when something occurs in a process or development.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

63%

News & Media

13%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

4%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at an initial stage" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that signifies something is in its early phase or beginning. Ludwig AI indicates that it is suitable for describing the timing of an event or process. It's commonly found in scientific, academic, and news contexts, carrying a neutral to formal tone. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what is being initiated and avoid overstating its current significance. Alternatives such as "in the beginning phase" or "at the outset" can be used for variety, depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the beginning phase

This alternative emphasizes the temporal aspect of starting something.

at the outset

This option provides a more formal tone, indicating the very start of something.

in its early stages

This variation focuses on the developmental aspect, highlighting that something is not yet fully developed.

in the preliminary phase

This suggests that something is in a preparatory stage, before the main activities begin.

at the starting point

This option highlights the location or position from which something begins.

at inception

This phrase is more formal and indicates the moment something is created or begins.

in its infancy

This alternative implies that something is very new and still developing, often used metaphorically.

at the dawn of

This phrase suggests the beginning of a new era or development.

in the embryonic stage

This is typically used to describe the very early development of something, often in a scientific or biological context.

at the ground level

This option conveys that something is at its most basic or fundamental level.

FAQs

What does "at an initial stage" mean?

The phrase "at an initial stage" signifies that something is in its early phase, just beginning or developing. It suggests that further development or progress is expected.

How can I use "at an initial stage" in a sentence?

You can use "at an initial stage" to describe the early phase of a project, process, or development. For example: "The research is "at an initial stage", and we are still collecting data."

What are some alternatives to "at an initial stage"?

You can use alternatives such as "in the beginning phase", "at the outset", or "in its early stages", depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "at an initial stage" and "in the initial stage"?

Both phrases are similar, but "at an initial stage" is more common. "In the initial stage" can also be used but might sound slightly more formal or less natural in some contexts.