at least a start

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at least a start" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is a beginning or an initial effort, even if it is not complete or perfect. Example: "While the project is far from finished, it is at least a start towards achieving our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

It is at least a start.

The Economist

At least a start has been made.

The Economist

But it is at least a start.

The Economist

The decree is far from perfect, but it's at least a start.

The Washington Post

It wasn't nearly a happy-ever-after, but it was at least a start.

The Guardian

That, given today's intense culture wars over climate change, is at least a start.

MIT Technology Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

It was at least a starting point.

The New York Times - Sports

Now that the list is released, there's at least a starting point.

The Washington Post

The marquee announcing the United States men's basketball team lists at least a starting five -- Tim Duncan, Tracy McGrady, Allen Iverson, Jermaine O'Neal and Mike Bibby.

The New York Times - Sports

Were similar proposals championed by mainstream leaders rather than marginal politicians, they could represent at least a starting point for new dialogue.

The New York Times

But this is at least a starting point, with brief descriptions of several popular ways for the wealthy and the middle class to give to charity.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at least a start" to acknowledge the limitations of an initial action while still recognizing its value as a first step towards a larger goal.

Common error

Avoid using "at least a start" when the action is genuinely insignificant or ineffective. Ensure the action has some tangible value, however small, before characterizing it as "at least a start".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at least a start" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It indicates a minimal degree of achievement or progress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it acknowledges that something is a beginning, even if incomplete.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at least a start" is a commonly used phrase that serves to acknowledge the initial value of an action or effort, even if it is not fully comprehensive. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media. While it may not be appropriate in all situations, such as when the action is truly insignificant, it generally provides encouragement and sets expectations for further progress. Consider using alternatives like "a step in the right direction" or "a promising beginning" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a step in the right direction

Emphasizes progress and positive change.

a good first step

Highlights the initial nature and positive quality of the action.

a promising beginning

Suggests potential for future success and development.

a foundation to build upon

Implies that the current action provides a base for further progress.

an initial move

Focuses on the action as the first in a series of steps.

a rudimentary beginning

Highlights simplicity and basic nature of the start

the opening gambit

Emphasizes the strategic and initiating nature of the action, often in a competitive context.

a nascent phase

Suggests an early stage of development and growth.

a mere commencement

Underscores that it is just the very beginning and much more needs to be done.

a preliminary action

Stresses the preparatory nature of the step taken.

FAQs

How can I use "at least a start" in a sentence?

You can use "at least a start" to describe something that is a beginning or an initial effort, even if it is not complete or perfect. For example, "While the project is far from finished, it's "at least a start" towards achieving our goals."

What's a more formal alternative to "at least a start"?

In a more formal context, you might use phrases such as "a promising first step" or "a rudimentary beginning". These alternatives provide a similar meaning while maintaining a more elevated tone.

Which is correct, "at least a start" or "at the least a start"?

"At least a start" is the correct and more common phrasing. "At the least a start" is grammatically awkward and not typically used.

What can I say instead of "at least a start" when emphasizing the potential for future growth?

To emphasize future potential, consider using phrases like "a foundation to build upon" or "a step in the right direction", which highlight the positive implications of the initial action.