just a beginning

USAGE SUMMARY

"just a beginning" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is starting or has the potential for greater development. For example: "This new project is just a beginning; I'm confident that it will eventually be a success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

They were also just a beginning.

The New York Times - Science

It added: "This was just a beginning.

The New York Times

All this may be just a beginning.

The New York Times

uprising, Sellers says, was just a beginning.

The New Yorker

Still, it is just a beginning.

The New York Times - Sports

But the video was just a beginning.

The New York Times

One we hope is just a beginning".

The New York Times

It is just a beginning.

The Guardian - Opinion

That was just a beginning.

The Guardian - Opinion

But this is just a beginning.

The Guardian

But that is just a beginning.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "just a beginning" to set expectations that more progress or development is anticipated. It is effective when introducing a new initiative, project, or phase.

Common error

Avoid using "just a beginning" when the subject is already fully developed or nearing completion. It can mislead the audience about the true state of progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just a beginning" primarily functions as a qualifier to indicate that the current state or action is only the initial stage of something larger or more significant. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is grammatically correct. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "just a beginning" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that something is in its initial stage, implying future development or progress. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It has a neutral register, making it suitable for various contexts, especially in news and media. While alternatives exist, such as "merely the start" or "only the commencement", the phrase effectively manages expectations and signals potential. When writing, use it to introduce new initiatives or projects, but avoid overstating the significance when the subject is already well-developed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

merely the start

Emphasizes the insignificance of the current stage, highlighting the potential for further development.

only the commencement

Formal alternative emphasizing the initial stage of something.

simply the inception

Highlights the initial phase or start of something, often suggesting a longer process ahead.

just the initial phase

Focuses on the early stage of a process, implying that there are subsequent phases to follow.

a mere starting point

Suggests that the current situation is basic and will be built upon.

a tentative kickoff

Indicates a cautious or experimental beginning, implying uncertainty about future progress.

an embryonic stage

Implies an early, undeveloped state with the potential for significant growth.

at the dawn of

Suggests the very beginning of something new or important.

in its infancy

Highlights the early, immature state of something.

the opening gambit

Highlights the first move or action in a strategy or plan.

FAQs

How can I use "just a beginning" in a sentence?

You can use "just a beginning" to indicate that something is in its early stages and more development is expected. For example, "This is "just a beginning", and we anticipate significant growth in the coming years."

What phrases are similar to "just a beginning"?

Alternatives to "just a beginning" include phrases like "merely the start", "only the commencement", or "simply the inception".

Is it appropriate to use "just a beginning" in formal writing?

Yes, "just a beginning" is suitable for formal writing, although more formal alternatives like "only the commencement" might be preferred in certain contexts. Its neutral tone makes it versatile.

What does "just a beginning" imply about future prospects?

Using "just a beginning" suggests that there is potential for further development, growth, or progress. It sets the expectation that the current state is not the final or complete version.