interim step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "interim step" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when referring to actions taken as a temporary solution or measure before a longer-term plan is put in place. For example, "We took an interim step to help improve the situation, but will need to come up with a more detailed plan moving forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This is an interim step".

The New York Times

This is an interim step to restore trust".

The New York Times

But the visual artist doesn't need that interim step.

The New York Times

(4) Organizational separation is just an interim step.

Harvard Business Review

Rule #4: Organizational separation is just an interim step.

Harvard Business Review

This year an interim step has been added.

The New York Times - Arts

But this should be only an interim step to proper sanitary landfill practices".

The Guardian

But the situation remains desperate enough to warrant an emergency interim step.

The New York Times

Bringing in state administrators "may very well be an important interim step," he said.

The New York Times

It feels like a transformative interim step, if that's not too oxymoronic.

The Guardian - Tech

Last summer, he found work as an auto mechanic in Palm Springs, Calif., an interim step.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "interim step", ensure it's clear what the ultimate goal or final solution is. Providing context helps the reader understand the purpose of the temporary measure.

Common error

Avoid treating an "interim step" as a permanent solution. Clearly communicate that it is temporary to manage expectations and encourage the pursuit of a more sustainable fix.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "interim step" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It denotes a temporary measure or action taken as a means to achieve a later, more permanent goal. Ludwig AI confirms the validity of this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "interim step" is a commonly used noun phrase to describe a temporary measure taken before a more permanent solution is implemented. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various domains, including News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science. When using "interim step", ensure that the ultimate goal is clear and avoid treating it as a long-term solution. Related phrases include "temporary measure", "provisional solution", and "transitional phase". Remember to provide context when using the phrase to help readers understand its purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

temporary measure

Focuses on the temporary nature of the action.

provisional solution

Emphasizes that the solution is not yet permanent.

stopgap arrangement

Highlights the idea of filling a gap until a better solution is available.

transitional phase

Focuses on the process of moving from one state to another.

preliminary action

Highlights that the action is an early step in a longer process.

intermediate stage

Focuses on the position in the middle between the beginning and the final stage.

short-term fix

Emphasizes the brevity of the solution.

stepping stone

Highlights the action as a means to reach a further goal.

ad-hoc solution

Emphasizes that the solution is specifically for a particular problem or task.

makeshift solution

Emphasizes that the solution is created using what is available.

FAQs

What does "interim step" mean?

An "interim step" is a temporary action or measure taken before a more permanent or long-term solution can be implemented. It's a way to address an immediate need while working towards a final goal.

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

You might say, "As an interim step, we're implementing a new software, but we plan to upgrade to a full system next quarter."

What are some alternatives to "interim step"?

You can use alternatives like "temporary measure", "provisional solution", or "transitional phase" depending on the context.

Is "interim step" formal or informal?

"Interim step" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal settings, consider more precise alternatives like "preliminary action" or "intermediate stage".