constructive steps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "constructive steps" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to positive actions taken to improve a situation or achieve a goal. Example: "To resolve the issue, we need to take constructive steps towards finding a solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 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

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

"It is essential that [North Korea] refrain from further provocative action and take constructive steps towards denuclearisation and lasting peace and stability on the Korean peninsula".

The Guardian

And, you know, there's all kinds of excuses but in order to achieve lasting peace both sides must make constructive steps.

The New York Times

"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

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "constructive steps", ensure the context clearly indicates the problem being addressed and the desired outcome. This provides clarity and strengthens the impact of your message.

Common error

Avoid using "constructive steps" without specifying the goal or problem being addressed. Vague usage dilutes the phrase's impact and can make your writing sound generic. Always provide context to enhance clarity and relevance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "constructive steps" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where 'constructive' modifies 'steps', indicating actions that are designed to improve a situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase denotes positive actions aimed at achieving a goal, examples include phrases from the New York Times or the Guardian.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "constructive steps" is a widely used phrase that signifies positive and intentional actions taken to improve a situation. As Ludwig AI underlines, it's grammatically sound and versatile, appearing frequently in news, science, and formal business contexts. While alternatives like ""positive measures"" or ""practical steps"" exist, "constructive steps" maintains a formal tone suitable for professional communication. For best use, always provide clear context to maximize its impact and avoid vagueness. By following these guidelines, you can effectively incorporate "constructive steps" into your writing to convey a sense of proactive and purposeful action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

positive measures

Emphasizes the beneficial nature of the actions taken.

practical steps

Focuses on the feasibility and utility of the actions.

effective actions

Highlights the success and impact of the actions.

helpful actions

Stresses the supportive and assisting nature of the actions.

positive actions

Underscores the affirmative and beneficial aspects of the actions.

meaningful actions

Highlights the significance and purposefulness of the actions.

concrete actions

Emphasizes the tangibility and definiteness of the actions.

purposeful actions

Focuses on the intent and goal-oriented nature of the actions.

forward-thinking actions

Highlights the proactive and innovative nature of the actions.

solution-oriented actions

Stresses the focus on finding and implementing solutions.

FAQs

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

You can use "constructive steps" to describe actions taken to improve a situation or solve a problem. For example, "To resolve the ongoing dispute, both parties must take "positive measures"." or "The company is taking "practical steps" to reduce its carbon footprint".

What are some alternatives to "constructive steps"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as ""positive measures"", ""practical steps"", "effective actions", or "helpful actions".

In what situations is it appropriate to use "constructive steps"?

"Constructive steps" is appropriate when you want to emphasize that the actions taken are intended to build something positive or resolve an issue in a helpful way. It's particularly suitable in formal and professional contexts.

Is "constructive steps" formal or informal language?

"Constructive steps" is generally considered neutral to formal language, suitable for professional, academic, and news contexts. In casual conversation, simpler terms might be preferred.