initial approach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "initial approach" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the first method or strategy taken to address a problem or situation. Example: "Our initial approach to the project involved extensive research and brainstorming sessions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His initial approach was traditional.

The Guardian - Tech

"Their initial approach may come in a roundabout way.

The Guardian

Email is mostly best for an initial approach.

The Guardian

Supportive therapy is the usual initial approach.

Brazilian Journal of Anesthesiology

"Their initial approach was mass mobilisation in places like California – and it failed".

The Guardian

Your initial approach to a potential networking contact should reflect this.

The Guardian

This natural colour view of Saturn was taken during Cassini's initial approach in 2004.

The Guardian

Perhaps the more serious issue is what chief executives and others do after an initial approach.

The New York Times

suggest alternative experimental approaches if an initial approach fails to answer a question.

Stanford University

British and American officials said Friday that the initial approach was made by Libya in March, just before the war.

The New York Times

Your initial approach should be done in a way that doesn't embarrass you or make you feel awkward.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or project, clearly state your "initial approach" to set the stage for subsequent actions and explain why that particular approach was chosen initially.

Common error

Avoid using "initial approach" repetitively without explaining how it evolved or changed over time. Instead, focus on the progression and adaptation of strategies as the situation develops.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "initial approach" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the starting point or the first method used in addressing a problem, task, or situation. As Ludwig AI highlights, the term is widely applicable across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "initial approach" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase to denote the beginning or starting strategy in addressing a problem or situation. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is versatile and appears frequently in news, scientific, and business contexts. When using "initial approach", it's essential to provide context and explain why that particular approach was chosen. Avoid overuse without detailing the evolution of strategies, and consider alternatives like "starting point" or "preliminary strategy" to add variety to your writing. Remember, clear communication about your strategies enhances understanding and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

starting point

Focuses on the very beginning, the place from which something starts.

first step

Highlights the sequential nature of the approach as the very first action taken.

preliminary strategy

Emphasizes that the approach is a planned set of actions and is of a preliminary nature.

initial tactic

Highlights the plan or procedure designed to achieve an immediate aim.

original plan

Emphasizes the initial nature and planning aspect of the approach.

opening move

Suggests a strategic or tactical initiation, often used in business or competitive contexts.

basic methodology

Emphasizes the fundamental steps and methods employed at the start.

primary course of action

Highlights the action's role as the main or most important one among others that could be taken in the future.

introductory measure

Suggests that the approach is an initial action taken to introduce a series of further actions.

early onset

Emphasizes the starting time, typically in the beginning of a process.

FAQs

How can I use "initial approach" in a sentence?

You can use "initial approach" to describe the first method or strategy used to address a situation. For example, "The team's initial approach to the problem was to gather more data".

What's a good alternative to "initial approach"?

Alternatives include "starting point", "preliminary strategy", or "first step", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "initial approach" or "first approach"?

"Initial approach" and "first approach" are often interchangeable, but "initial approach" is generally preferred as it sounds more formal and professional. The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

How does "initial approach" differ from "final approach"?

"Initial approach" refers to the beginning strategy or method, while "final approach" refers to the concluding strategy or method used after modifications or adjustments have been made.