be a step forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a step forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate progress or improvement in a situation or process. Example: "Implementing this new policy will be a step forward in enhancing workplace productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It will be a step forward.

The Guardian - Opinion

It would be a step forward for democracy".

The Guardian

Having a single supervisor should be a step forward.

The New York Times

A universally applied spending cap that levels this playing field could be a step forward.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This would be a step forward to make conditions better for us".

The New York Times

Briggs told Hack that changing the date would be a step forward.

The Guardian - Music

Winning will be a step forward to try to qualify for the next round".

The Guardian - Sport

But Mr. Davis's half-a-loaf of democracy would still be a step forward.

The New York Times

For that reason, if for no other, the LeO will be a step forward for all.

The Guardian

Releasing the twenty-eight pages, he said, might be a step forward.

The New Yorker

To the extent that they do, that will be a step forward for racial equality.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "be a step forward", ensure the context clearly identifies what the progress or improvement is leading to. This provides clarity and reinforces the significance of the step.

Common error

Avoid using "be a step forward" to describe minor or insignificant changes. Overusing it can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a step forward" functions as a predicate nominative or a predicative adjective, attributing a quality of progress or advancement to a subject. Ludwig's examples confirm its use in expressing positive movement towards a goal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be a step forward" is a commonly used expression to indicate progress or advancement. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in news, scientific, and formal contexts. While versatile, it's important to ensure the context clearly defines the improvement and to avoid overstating its significance. By considering related phrases and common errors, writers can effectively use this phrase to convey positive change in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Represent progress

This alternative uses a verb phrase to directly state that something is advancing.

Mark an advancement

This alternative focuses on highlighting the specific improvement being made.

Constitute an improvement

This alternative offers a more formal way of expressing that something is getting better.

Signify positive development

This alternative suggests a more significant and noteworthy form of progress.

Pave the way forward

This alternative suggests creating the opportunity for future advancements.

Move in the right direction

This alternative is a more descriptive phrase focusing on trajectory.

Lead to advancement

This alternative emphasizes the potential outcome of a certain action.

Portend positive change

This alternative phrase suggests an upcoming positive shift.

Indicate upward trajectory

This alternative uses a more technical term to indicate positive movement.

Foster positive momentum

This alternative suggests creating and maintaining positive energy.

FAQs

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

You can use "be a step forward" to describe an action or decision that will lead to progress or improvement. For example, "Implementing this new policy will "be a step forward" in enhancing workplace productivity".

What are some alternatives to "be a step forward"?

You can use alternatives like "represent progress", "mark an advancement", or "constitute an improvement depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "be a step forward" in formal writing?

Yes, "be a step forward" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in business or academic contexts, to indicate progress or positive development. However, consider alternatives like "signify positive development" for a more emphatic tone.

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

"Be a step forward" indicates immediate progress, whereas "pave the way forward" suggests creating conditions for future advancements. The former describes an existing improvement, while the latter anticipates future opportunities.