just a start

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "just a start" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is an initial step or beginning point in a process or development. Example: "This project is just a start; we have many more phases to complete before it's finished."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And that's just a start.

The New York Times

That was just a start.

The New York Times

"Today is just a start.

The New York Times

That is just a start.

The New York Times

These are just a start.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

These links are just a start.

The New York Times

Reading the plan is just a start.

The New York Times

That may be just a start.

The New York Times

And that is just a start.

The Economist

Still, data entry was just a start.

The New York Times

Mr. Obama's plan is just a start.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "just a start" to set expectations when introducing an early phase of a larger project or initiative. This helps manage perceptions and encourages continued engagement.

Common error

Avoid using "just a start" when the action has already had a significant impact or when it is meant to be a final action. This can diminish the perceived value of the current accomplishments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just a start" functions as a qualifier, indicating that a particular action, event, or development is in its preliminary stage. It's often used to temper expectations and highlight that more effort or progress is anticipated. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

21%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

8%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "just a start" is a commonly used qualifier to indicate that something is in its early stages and more progress is anticipated. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic contexts, it serves to manage expectations and set the stage for future developments. Alternatives include "merely the beginning" and "only the commencement", offering similar meanings with varying degrees of formality. It's crucial to avoid overstating the impact when using this phrase, ensuring realistic perceptions of current accomplishments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

merely the beginning

Emphasizes the small scale of the current action relative to what will follow.

only the commencement

Highlights the formal initiation of something.

simply the inception

Focuses on the initial creation or establishment of something.

a preliminary step

Indicates that this is one of the first actions taken to reach a goal.

an initial phase

Identifies the current situation as the first stage in a series of developments.

a mere opening

Downplays the significance of the current action by suggesting it is not substantial.

the kickoff

Suggests the beginning or start of an activity or event.

the opening gambit

Implies a strategic start with further actions planned.

a foundation

Highlights that something is being built upon.

a springboard

Suggests that something provides a jump-off point for further action.

FAQs

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

You can use "just a start" to indicate that an action or achievement is only the beginning of something bigger. For example, "This initial investment is "just a start"; we plan to expand significantly next year."

What phrases are similar to "just a start"?

Alternatives to "just a start" include "merely the beginning", "only the commencement", or "simply the inception". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

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

While "just a start" is acceptable in many contexts, more formal alternatives such as "a preliminary step" or "an initial phase" might be more suitable for formal writing or business communication.

What's the difference between "just a start" and "only the beginning"?

Both phrases indicate that something is in its early stages, but "just a start" might imply a more modest initial effort. "Only the beginning" can suggest a more significant, ongoing development.