it is a positive development

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is a positive development" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a situation or change that has beneficial or favorable implications. Example: "The new policy has been implemented, and it is a positive development for employee morale."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"I think it is a positive development," she said.

The New York Times

"It is a positive development," said Tamrat Samuel, a senior United Nations official.

The New York Times

"Our reaction is that it is a positive development," said Bernard Graham, president of the Park Slope Civic Council.

The New York Times

Perhaps the effects of downscaling as old markets evaporate and the company goes "from being a leader to a challenger", as Elop sees it, is a positive development, but surely selling more devices is what it should do?

The Guardian - Tech

However, I think it is a positive development that players are now protected.

BBC

But if being judged by a cold, unfeeling machine seems a bit Orwellian, Mr Payne argues it is a positive development for applicants.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

But it was only able to launch in the first place because its rival, the Evening Standard, had left a gap in the market – in seeking to break that monopoly, it was a positive development, and its creation has changed newspaper coverage in the capital.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's a positive development for kids and for the N.B.A. scouts".

The New York Times - Sports

But he said of the Russian news report: "It's a positive development.

The New York Times

She said that it was a positive development that so many young people are getting involved in the political process.

The New Yorker

Randi Weingarten, president of the United Federation of Teachers, said Mr. Levy's appointment "is a positive development for kids, and therefore it's a positive development for teachers".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is a positive development" to objectively highlight the favorable aspects of a situation, especially when commenting on progress or improvements. This phrase is suitable for professional and formal communication.

Common error

Avoid using "it is a positive development" too frequently in your writing. Vary your language by using alternatives like "that's an encouraging sign" or "it's a welcome improvement" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is a positive development" functions as a comment or assessment, expressing a favorable judgment about a situation, event, or change. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for expressing positive opinions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is a positive development" is a grammatically correct and widely acceptable way to express a favorable judgment or acknowledge progress. As Ludwig AI indicates, this expression is suitable for use in written English. While the phrase appears most frequently in News & Media sources, it's also applicable in Scientific and Business settings. To avoid repetition, consider using alternatives like "it's a welcome improvement" or "that's an encouraging sign". Using this phrase effectively involves understanding its communicative purpose, which is to convey approval, optimism, or highlight beneficial aspects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's a step in the right direction

Focuses on progress being made, even if more is needed.

it's a welcome improvement

Highlights the improvement aspect, suggesting something has gotten better.

that's an encouraging sign

Emphasizes the potential for future positive outcomes.

that's a promising start

Highlights the potential for a successful beginning.

that bodes well

Implies a favorable prediction for the future based on current circumstances.

a favorable turn of events

Highlights a change in circumstances that is beneficial.

it's cause for optimism

Suggests the situation warrants a hopeful outlook.

that's a silver lining

Focuses on the positive aspect of an otherwise negative situation.

a boon for

Indicates something is highly beneficial or advantageous.

a reason to celebrate

Expresses strong approval and joy.

FAQs

What does "it is a positive development" mean?

The phrase "it is a positive development" means that something has occurred or changed in a way that is considered beneficial, favorable, or represents progress.

How can I use "it is a positive development" in a sentence?

You can use "it is a positive development" to express approval of a situation or change. For example, "The new policy has been implemented, and "it is a positive development" for employee morale."

What can I say instead of "it is a positive development"?

You can use alternatives like "it is a beneficial change", "it is a favorable outcome", or "it is a welcome improvement" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "it is a positive development" or "that's a positive development"?

Both "it is a positive development" and "that's a positive development" are grammatically correct and convey the same meaning. The choice depends on the context and your preferred writing style. "That's a positive development" is slightly more informal.