Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
initial marker
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
Initial marker is a valid and usable term in written English and it means something that is used to indicate the start of a process or activity.
For example, "We need to set an initial marker for the project and begin the planning process."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(20)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
50 human-written examples
Marker grouping and initial marker ordering was done with Joinmap 3.0 [ 19].
Marker grouping and initial marker ordering was done in Joinmap 3.0 [ 51].
Science
Gates has laid down an initial marker — 80 billion I think it was.
News & Media
Oscar sent a glancing header beyond Pepe Reina's left hand from Mata's corner, having escaped the attentions of both Agger, his initial marker, and Carragher, the defender covering the edge of the six-yard box.
News & Media
Even if there are no conclusive data showing a direct impact of NSAIDs on kidney functions in headache patients, these findings could represent an initial marker linked to a specific type of pain, such as CA. Alpha-1-microglobulin.
The Chinese government has laid down its initial marker for Copenhagen Chinaa would commit to reduce the carbon intensity of its economy (tons of carbon dioxide emitted per unit of economic activity) 40 to 45percentt by 2020.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
10 human-written examples
-Victoria R. "I learned how to use the "Initial Markers" when looking for reliable sources".
News & Media
The use of a subset of markers (i.e. eight initial markers or five ripple markers) that is made up of BI markers of both maternal linkage phases and less than two anchoring markers, results in an unreliable suggested marker order.
Science
Initial HAQ was slightly but significantly correlated with all initial markers of B-cell activation except IgA-RF (data not shown).
However, some LG parts were not covered, mainly due to the discarding of monomorphic markers (55%% of all initial markers; Additional file 5).
Science
This figure is quite low as compared to the 3,170 initial markers available, but is easily explained by the low coverage of recently sequenced genomes.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "initial marker", ensure the context clearly indicates what process or activity is being initiated. Provide enough information to clarify its role and significance.
Common error
Avoid using "initial marker" without specifying what it marks the beginning of. Vague usage can confuse readers. Always clarify the subsequent steps or processes that follow the "initial marker".
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "initial marker" functions as a noun phrase, where "initial" modifies the noun "marker". It identifies something that serves as a beginning or starting point. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is valid in English.
Frequent in
Science
60%
News & Media
40%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "initial marker" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote the starting point of a process or activity. While Ludwig identifies its usage as valid, it's relatively rare, primarily appearing in scientific and news-related contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what exactly the "initial marker" signifies. For alternative phrasing, consider "starting indicator" or "early sign" to convey a similar meaning. Remember to maintain precision in formal and scientific writing while adapting to simpler terms in casual communication.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
starting indicator
Replaces "initial" with "starting", emphasizing the beginning of a process.
early indicator
Emphasizes the early nature of the indication.
preliminary indicator
Uses "preliminary" instead of "initial", suggesting a first-stage marker.
early sign
Replaces "marker" with "sign", indicating an early indication of something.
primary signal
Highlights the main or most important initial sign.
first signal
Substitutes "initial" with "first" and "marker" with "signal", indicating a primary cue.
preceding marker
Describes a marker that comes before others.
initial symptom
Uses "symptom" as a more specific type of "marker", relevant in medical contexts.
starting point
Replaces "marker" with "point", focusing on the commencement of an activity.
opening flag
Uses a more figurative language to describe the initial marker.
FAQs
What does "initial marker" mean?
An "initial marker" refers to a starting point, sign, or indicator used to denote the beginning of a process, activity, or state. It's often used in scientific, medical, and project management contexts.
What are some alternatives to "initial marker"?
You can use alternatives like "starting indicator", "early sign", or "preliminary indicator" depending on the specific context.
How can I use "initial marker" in a sentence?
For example, you might say, "Increased levels of this protein can serve as an "initial marker" for the disease", or "The project's kickoff meeting is the "initial marker" for the start of the planning phase".
Is "initial marker" a formal term?
Yes, "initial marker" tends to be used in more formal contexts, such as scientific research, technical reports, and professional documentation. In more casual settings, simpler terms like "starting point" or "first sign" may be more appropriate.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested