constructive step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "constructive step" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an action or measure that contributes positively towards achieving a goal or resolving an issue. Example: "Taking a constructive step towards improving team communication can lead to better collaboration and productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

That would be a constructive step forward for the industry.

The Guardian - Tech

The recent talks are nevertheless a constructive step.

The New Yorker

Is that a constructive step in your view?

The Washington Post

The new products are "a constructive step," said Timothy Luke, an analyst with Lehman Brothers.

The New York Times

To Coty, that move felt like stalling rather than a constructive step toward negotiations.

The New York Times

"I commend Prime Minister Netanyahu for taking, I think, a very constructive step.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

These are not constructive steps.

The New York Times

Rather than waiting for the next catastrophe, we can take constructive steps now to protect those in harm's way.

The New York Times

I agree with the Jan . 14letter from Lawrence T. Smith, chairman of the American Diabetes Association, urging Congress to take three constructive steps to stem the rise of diabetes in our population.

The New York Times

And he offers constructive steps to encourage voter participation, the most interesting of which is to shorten the presidential nomination process.

The New York Times - Books

"There are limits to the amount of time and effort that the United States can spend if the parties themselves are unable to take constructive steps.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "constructive step" to highlight actions that have a clear, positive impact. Avoid using it for actions that are merely symbolic or lack tangible results.

Common error

Avoid using "constructive step" as a generic compliment. Instead, specify the action and its positive contribution. For example, instead of saying 'The meeting was a constructive step', specify 'The meeting facilitated a concrete agreement on budget allocations'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "constructive step" functions as a noun phrase where "constructive" modifies "step", indicating a positive and helpful action. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "constructive step" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe actions or measures that contribute positively toward achieving a goal. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's widely used across news, academic, and business contexts. While alternatives like "positive measure" or "helpful action" exist, "constructive step" effectively conveys the idea of progress and improvement, while avoiding vague usage, and is appropriate for formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

positive measure

Replaces 'constructive step' with a more general term for a beneficial action.

helpful action

Substitutes 'constructive' with 'helpful', focusing on the supportive aspect of the action.

beneficial move

Replaces 'step' with 'move', emphasizing the strategic aspect of the action.

practical approach

Focuses on the practicality and effectiveness of the method.

worthwhile endeavor

Highlights the value and effort involved in the action.

advantageous initiative

Emphasizes the favorable and proactive nature of the action.

fruitful endeavor

Focuses on the potential for positive results from the action.

valuable measure

Highlights the importance and worth of the action.

forward-thinking action

Emphasizes the proactive and innovative nature of the step.

wise decision

Focuses on the intelligence and prudence behind the action.

FAQs

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

You can use "constructive step" to describe an action or measure that contributes positively to achieving a goal. For example, 'Implementing the new policy was a "constructive step" towards improving efficiency'.

What are some alternatives to "constructive step"?

Alternatives include "positive measure", "helpful action", or "beneficial move", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "constructive step" in formal writing?

Yes, "constructive step" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing improvements, progress, or solutions. It is commonly used in business, academic, and news contexts.

What makes an action a "constructive step"?

A "constructive step" is an action that is designed to build upon existing efforts and contribute positively to solving a problem or achieving a goal. It suggests progress and improvement.