first step

USAGE SUMMARY

"first step" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the initial action taken towards a goal. For example: "Taking the first step towards my new career was difficult, but it was also incredibly rewarding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The first step was barter.

The New York Times

"This is our first step".

The New York Times - Tech

It's just the first step".

The New York Times

This is a first step".

The New York Times

Admission is the first step!

The New York Times

It's a nice first step.

The New Yorker

That's our first step.

Yale University

That's a first step.

Cornell University

But this first step?

Harvard University

What's the first step?

Yale University

Today was first step".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When outlining multiple steps, ensure the "first step" logically leads to the subsequent actions. This helps maintain a coherent flow of information.

Common error

Avoid assuming the "first step" is always simple or easy. Acknowledging potential challenges from the outset sets realistic expectations and prepares for necessary effort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first step" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. It identifies the initial action or stage in a process, as demonstrated by Ludwig examples such as "Admission is the "first step"!" or "That's our "first step"."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

19%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Wiki

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "first step" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote the initial action or stage in a process. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and widespread applicability, with examples spanning from news and academia to more informal contexts. While alternatives like "initial action" or "starting point" exist, "first step" provides a clear and direct way to emphasize the beginning. Remember to consider the context when using the phrase to ensure clarity and avoid redundancy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial action

Focuses on the action aspect of the beginning.

starting point

Emphasizes the beginning as a location or position.

incipience

A more formal term highlighting the commencement or beginning stage of something.

opening move

Implies a strategic or planned beginning, often in a competitive context.

preliminary measure

Highlights the preparatory nature of the initial action.

groundwork

Focuses on the foundational aspect of the beginning.

entry point

Suggests a place or stage where one begins involvement or access.

the kickoff

Implies a dynamic and energetic start to an activity or project.

pilot phase

Refers to the introductory stage of an implementation or test.

maiden voyage

Emphasizes the novelty and exploratory nature of the beginning.

FAQs

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

You can use "first step" to indicate the initial action in a process. For example, "The "first step" to learning a new language is mastering the alphabet."

What are some alternatives to saying "first step"?

Alternatives include "initial action", "starting point", or "preliminary measure" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "very first step"?

While not grammatically incorrect, "very first step" can be redundant. "First step" already implies the initial action. Consider using it only for emphasis.

What's the difference between "first step" and "next step"?

"First step" refers to the beginning of a process, while "next step" refers to a subsequent action after the "first step" has been completed. They indicate different points in a sequence.