determining the next steps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "determining the next steps" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a process or plan that involves figuring out what actions to take next. Example: "After reviewing the project outcomes, we will focus on determining the next steps to ensure success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

There is no timetable for development, and the city is reviewing the public input and determining the next steps.

The New York Times

Robert R. Hinckley, a Pataki spokesman, said, "No other administration has tackled this issue the way this administration has, and the governor is looking forward to determining the next steps we must take".

The New York Times

And Cedric Richmond (D-La)., who's also toyed with impeaching Trump ― particularly after his remarks that there was "blame on both sides" for the violent white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia ― seemed to be taking a small step back, saying he was "very content right now, at least for a short period of time," in waiting to get the report and then determining the next steps.

HuffPost

Mastery of key concepts and theories, and the development of critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, were prerequisites for developing more advanced scientific thinking skills, such as determining the next steps of an experiment or designing an experiment.

CBE Life Sciences Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

But making those Internet voice connections and then keeping track of who is hearing what can sometimes become as complicated as determining the next step in destroying the enemy in some cyberbattle.

The New York Times - Tech

Knowledge of the radiologic appearance of these lesions is crucial in developing a differential diagnosis and determining the next step in management.

Insights into Imaging

Observation of the morphology of the lesion on radiographs and computed tomography (CT) can often narrow the differential substantially; therefore, knowledge of the radiographic presentation of various large airway masses can be instrumental in determining the next step in management.

Insights into Imaging

The judge set a hearing for next week to determine the next steps in the case.

Huffington Post

Additional hearings will determine the next steps in protecting this unusual species.

Stanford University

The CWU Postal Executive will meet later this week to determine the next steps in this campaign and any potential strike dates.

The Guardian - Business

Fairfax County School Board Chairwoman Karen Corbett Sanders said the panel will determine the next steps on the district's seclusion and restraint practices based on Brabrand's findings.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "determining the next steps", ensure that the context clearly outlines the decision-making process and the factors influencing the determination. For clarity, briefly describe what is being considered when determining the subsequent actions.

Common error

Avoid using "determining the next steps" without providing enough context. If the audience is unaware of the current situation or previous actions, the phrase can seem vague and unhelpful. Always preface with relevant background information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "determining the next steps" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun in a sentence. It describes the act of deciding on future actions after assessing a situation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "determining the next steps" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that signifies the process of deciding on subsequent actions following an assessment or event. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a suitable phrase for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academia. When using this phrase, ensure that you provide adequate context to avoid vagueness and enhance clarity. Consider alternatives like "deciding on the next course of action" or "planning the subsequent stages" to add nuance. Remember to tailor your choice to the specific situation and audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deciding on the next course of action

Replaces "determining" with a more straightforward "deciding" and uses "course of action" for emphasis.

planning the subsequent stages

Focuses on planning and uses "stages" to imply a structured process.

identifying the future measures

Emphasizes identification rather than determination, suitable when options are less clear.

establishing the following procedures

Formalizes the decision-making process, appropriate in professional or official settings.

charting the path forward

Offers a more metaphorical and strategic view, suggesting long-term direction.

mapping out the succeeding moves

Implies a detailed and tactical approach, suitable for complex situations.

figuring out what comes next

Simplifies the phrase to its most basic meaning, making it more casual.

assessing the options for advancement

Focuses on assessment and advancement, fitting contexts where progress is the goal.

devising a strategy for progression

Highlights strategic planning and the idea of progression or improvement.

considering immediate follow-up activities

Narrows the scope to immediate actions and uses "follow-up activities" for clarity.

FAQs

How can I use "determining the next steps" in a sentence?

You can use "determining the next steps" to describe the process of deciding on subsequent actions after an evaluation or event. For example: "After reviewing the data, the team is /s/determining+the+next+steps to improve efficiency".

What's a good alternative to "determining the next steps"?

Alternatives include "deciding on the next course of action", "planning the subsequent stages", or "identifying the future measures", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "determining the next steps"?

It is appropriate when you are at a point where a decision needs to be made about what actions to take following a review, assessment, or completion of a previous phase. It's suitable in both formal and informal contexts.

Is "determining the next step" grammatically different from "determining the next steps"?

Yes, "step" is singular and refers to a single action, while "steps" is plural and refers to a series of actions. The choice depends on whether you're deciding on one action or a sequence of actions. "Determining the next step" might be used when a single immediate action is needed, whereas "determining the next steps" is used when the future involves a more comprehensive plan.