careful step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "careful step" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a cautious or deliberate action taken to avoid mistakes or accidents. Example: "As she approached the edge of the cliff, she took a careful step to ensure her footing was secure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

One careful step followed by a pause.

The Guardian - Books

The rewards are worth every careful step.

The New York Times

"Cannibal Resource" opens the album with an easeful blast, a careful step into Longstreth's mandarin ways.

The New Yorker

"It's artist-driven: Faith Hill is not taking a careful step here.

The New York Times - Arts

The process was in keeping with Ginsburg's character: careful, step by step.

The New Yorker

That is the kind of careful step forward that even Hollywood can dare to take.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

The exquisitely careful step-by-step ordering of tasks in each section of the site is clear to everyone.

The New York Times

They should also test different approaches, adopt a careful step-by-step approach for understanding the market, and identify where and how to intervene.

The Guardian

Mr. Woodward said in an e-mail after the meeting that through the breakfast, "Jeff Bezos explained the thinking behind his reasoned and careful step-by-step process in deciding to buy The Post".

The New York Times

Dr Yoshimoto and his colleagues would like to add liver cancer to that list.In this section The car that parks itself Defenders of the Earth A punch in the gut Of mice and Manet ReprintsTheir paper making this accusation is published in this week's Nature, and it is a careful, step-by-step analysis of the matter.

The Economist

"I will walk in and take careful steps".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "careful step" to convey not just physical caution, but also intellectual or emotional prudence in decision-making.

Common error

Avoid using "careful step" as a generic descriptor. Instead, specify why the step is careful. For example, instead of saying "The company took a careful step forward", clarify with "The company took a "careful step forward", investing in research and development to mitigate market entry risks".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "careful step" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "careful" modifies the noun "step". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. It is used to describe an action taken with caution to avoid mistakes or accidents.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "careful step" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a cautious or deliberate action, according to Ludwig AI. It functions as a noun phrase, emphasizing the prudence and intention behind the action. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it conveys a neutral to professional tone. When employing this phrase, ensure to provide sufficient context, elaborating on the reasons for the careful approach. Related phrases include "cautious step" and "deliberate step". These alternatives offer subtle nuances in meaning, focusing on risk avoidance and intentionality, respectively. The phrase, while versatile, should be used thoughtfully to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cautious step

Replaces "careful" with "cautious", highlighting the element of avoiding potential danger or risks.

deliberate step

Substitutes "careful" with "deliberate", focusing on the intentional and thoughtful nature of the action.

prudent step

Replaces "careful" with "prudent", emphasizing wisdom and foresight in the action taken.

considered action

Shifts from a literal step to a more general action, highlighting thoughtfulness.

measured approach

Emphasizes a methodical and controlled way of proceeding.

circumspect move

Uses "circumspect" to highlight wariness and careful consideration before acting.

guarded maneuver

Implies a defensive or protective quality in the action.

strategic advance

Highlights the calculated and planned nature of the progression.

precautionary measure

Focuses on the action as a means of preventing potential problems.

mindful stride

Emphasizes awareness and attentiveness in the way the step is taken.

FAQs

How can I use "careful step" in a sentence?

You can use "careful step" to describe a cautious or deliberate action, such as "She took a "careful step" to avoid slipping on the ice" or "The government is taking a "careful step toward" economic reform".

What are some alternatives to "careful step"?

Alternatives include "cautious step", "deliberate step", or "prudent step" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "careful step"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize caution, deliberation, and the avoidance of potential risks or errors in a particular action or decision.

What is the difference between "careful step" and "calculated risk"?

"Careful step" implies minimizing risk through prudence, while "calculated risk" /s/calculated+risk acknowledges risk but suggests it's been assessed and deemed acceptable. A "careful step" aims to avoid potential negative outcomes, whereas a "calculated risk" accepts the possibility of failure for potential gain.