firm step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "firm step" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a decisive or determined action, for example: "She took a firm step in the right direction and has never looked back."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

A firm step from water to land.

University of California, Berkeley

I heard a step-a quick firm step along the shady avenue.

Columbia University

We took a firm step; we did not confuse the nuclear issue with other issues.

The New Yorker

America just took a firm step toward a safer, more just society.

The Guardian - Opinion

OFFICIALLY, the cause of free trade in the Americas will take a firm step forward this week.

The Economist

Germany's Justice Ministry took a firm step on Wednesday toward safeguarding the right of parents to circumcise their male children.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

And take other firm steps?

The New Yorker

But I'll take firm steps.

The New Yorker

We expected and will expect firm steps from our counterparts.

The New York Times

Next time around we need to take more measured steps, more firm steps.

The New York Times

In the absence of firm steps, she said, the board felt it had to act.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing progress or a significant decision, use "firm step" to convey a sense of confidence and forward momentum. It's particularly effective when highlighting a deliberate and impactful action.

Common error

Avoid using "firm step" to describe insignificant or trivial actions. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make your writing sound less convincing. Reserve it for actions that genuinely represent a significant move forward.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "firm step" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective "firm" modifies the noun "step". It describes the nature or quality of the action being taken. Ludwig confirms this is a usable and correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "firm step" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a decisive and confident action, often signifying progress or a significant move forward. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is appropriate for a range of contexts, but is most frequently found in news, academic, and business settings. The phrase is powerful to convey purpose and intentionality behind an act. When employing this phrase, it's best practice to ensure the context aligns with the weight it carries, avoiding its use in describing insignificant actions to maintain its impact. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "decisive action" or "determined move" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

decisive action

Focuses on the decisiveness of the action taken, rather than the progress made.

concrete action

Emphasizes the tangible and practical nature of the action.

determined move

Highlights the determination behind the action, suggesting a strong will.

definite stride

Highlights the clearness of a step, action or progress.

resolute measure

Stresses the firmness and determination of the action taken.

purposeful stride

Suggests a confident and intentional movement forward.

positive development

Emphasizes the favorable outcome or progress resulting from the action.

bold initiative

Highlights the courage and innovation involved in the action.

significant advancement

Indicates a notable level of progress or improvement.

tangible progress

Focuses on the visible and measurable improvement achieved.

FAQs

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

You can use "firm step" to describe a decisive action or progress. For example, "The company took a "firm step" toward sustainability by investing in renewable energy."

What are some alternatives to "firm step"?

You can use alternatives like "decisive action", "determined move", or "positive development" depending on the context.

Is "firm step" formal or informal?

"Firm step" is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, though it is often used in professional or news settings to describe significant actions or progress.

What does "taking a firm step" imply?

"Taking a firm step" implies making a confident and deliberate move forward. It suggests that the action is well-considered and has a clear purpose.