is in the initial stages

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is in the initial stages" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used to describe the beginning or early stages of a process, project, or situation. Example: The company's expansion plan is in the initial stages and they are currently conducting market research to determine potential locations.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

The department has said it is in the initial stages of an inquiry.

The Guardian

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is in the initial stages of phasing out the MetroCard.

The New York Times

Fairfax is in the initial stages of exploring whether to take over some of its roads.

The Washington Post

The Virgin Hotels group, which debuted its Web site this week, is in the initial stages of acquiring existing properties in North America.

The New York Times

As for cabs, the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission is in the "initial stages" of examining whether a surcharge is warranted, said Diane McGrath McKechnie, the commission chairwoman.

The New York Times

Its plan to take over East End, which would require bank or public financing and approval from Manassas officials, is in the initial stages, said chief executive Karen DeVito.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

"Mr. Medvedev is in the initial stage of his presidency," he said.

The New York Times

However, the research on detection mechanism of PEC sensors is in the initial stage and need to be further exploited.

Biosensors and Bioelectronics

Additionally, the NaOH system has the potential for improvements through more research because it is in the initial stage of development.

International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

Overall, the research on relay protection technology of half-wavelength transmission is in the initial stage.

Protection and Control of Modern Power Systems

The development of Zuo Yue Zi centres in Toronto is in the initial stage; however, the service is expensive and the quality is questionable [ 32].

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "is in the initial stages", ensure it's followed by a clear indication of what "it" refers to. This avoids ambiguity and provides context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "is in the initial stages" when the project has already advanced significantly. This can mislead stakeholders about the true status of the undertaking.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is in the initial stages" functions as a descriptive element within a sentence, specifying the state or progression level of a particular subject, often a project, plan, or process. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is in the initial stages" is a grammatically correct and professionally appropriate way to describe the early phase of a project or process. Ludwig AI affirms its common usage. While not exceptionally frequent, it appears across various contexts, notably in news, science, and business, signaling its versatility and reliability. Remember to provide clear context when using this phrase to avoid ambiguity, and refrain from using it to overstate progress. Consider related phrases like "is just beginning" or "is in the early phase" for simpler or more nuanced expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is in the early phase

Replaces "initial stages" with "early phase", which provides a slightly simpler and more direct expression.

is in the opening stages

Substitutes "initial stages" with "opening stages", offering a straightforward synonym.

is in the preliminary phase

Uses "preliminary phase" instead of "initial stages", highlighting the preparatory nature of the phase.

is in the nascent stage

Substitutes "initial stages" with "nascent stage", indicating a very early and undeveloped phase.

is at the starting point

Replaces "initial stages" with "starting point", highlighting the very beginning of a process.

is in its infancy

Replaces "initial stages" with a metaphor, "infancy", to emphasize the immaturity of the project or process.

is in the formative period

Replaces "initial stages" with "formative period", which emphasizes the importance of this time for future development.

is just beginning

Offers a simplified alternative, focusing on the commencement of the activity.

is commencing

Provides a formal and concise alternative, emphasizing the act of starting.

is getting off the ground

Employs an idiomatic expression to mean starting or making progress.

FAQs

What does "is in the initial stages" mean?

The phrase "is in the initial stages" means that something is at the beginning of its development or implementation. It indicates that the process or project has just started and is not yet fully developed.

How can I use "is in the initial stages" in a sentence?

You can use "is in the initial stages" to describe projects, plans, or processes that are just beginning. For example: "The company's expansion plan "is in the initial stages" and they are conducting market research."

What are some alternatives to "is in the initial stages"?

Some alternatives to "is in the initial stages" include "is in the early phase", "is just beginning", or "is in its infancy" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "is in the initial stages" in formal writing?

Yes, "is in the initial stages" is appropriate for formal writing, as it is a clear and professional way to describe the early phase of a project or process. However, consider alternatives such as "is in the preliminary phase" for an even more formal tone.