make a big step

USAGE SUMMARY

"make a big step" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to taking a courageous or bold action that produces a large and noteworthy change. For example: "If we want to make progress on this issue, we have to make a big step."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

"But we could make a big step".

The Guardian - Sport

"He's got to make a big step forward," Lukas said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Manor will make a big step and not just because of the engine," Wolff said.

Independent

We can make a big step but not the biggest step.

The Guardian - Sport

Painter said she didn't think "the names ought to be ripped off without discussion," but, equally, that "things don't really make a big step forward until this kind of demonstration.

The New Yorker

"It has some good engineers, some really interesting technical people, an interesting structure that needs some development and some tuning, but together with a big effort from everybody I think it can make a big step forward".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

McLaren say they considered simply evolving the 2012 car but realised that, in the words of engineering director Tim Goss, they "needed to make a bigger step".

BBC

"Everyone is improving so you need to make a bigger step than them and I don't think we've done that".

BBC

"He made a big step today".

The New York Times - Sports

Democracy 2015 is making a big step forward.

Independent

Recently, Cu(In, Ga Se2 (CIGS) technology made a big step from research and development to fabrication.

Thin Solid Films

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make a big step" when you want to emphasize a significant advancement or improvement. It's suitable for describing progress in various fields, from personal development to technological advancements.

Common error

While both "make a big step" and "take a big step" are acceptable, "make a big step" is more commonly used. "Take a big step" can sometimes imply risk or uncertainty, whereas "make a big step" generally emphasizes positive progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a big step" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of achieving significant progress or advancement. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in various contexts, all emphasizing positive forward movement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make a big step" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe significant progress or advancement. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely used across various contexts, notably in news and media, science, and formal business communications. When writing, remember that while "take a big step" is also correct, it can imply more risk than "make a big step", which generally emphasizes positive forward momentum. With its consistent usage and clear meaning, "make a big step" remains a reliable choice for expressing substantial progress.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take significant strides

Replaces "make" with "take" and uses "strides" to emphasize continuous progress.

advance considerably

Replaces the entire phrase with a more concise expression of significant advancement.

progress substantially

Similar to "advance considerably" but uses "progress" to highlight the improvement aspect.

achieve considerable headway

Focuses on achieving progress, replacing "make a big step" with an idiom indicating advancement.

move forward significantly

Emphasizes the forward motion and the significance of the advancement.

make notable progress

Uses "notable progress" to specify that the advancement is worthy of attention.

leap ahead

A more figurative way to express a sudden and significant advancement.

gain ground rapidly

Focuses on gaining an advantage or improving position quickly.

turn a corner

An idiomatic expression suggesting a positive change or improvement after a difficult period.

reach a turning point

Highlights a crucial moment that leads to significant changes or advancements.

FAQs

What does "make a big step" mean?

The phrase "make a big step" means to make significant progress or advancement in a particular area. It implies a notable improvement or development.

How can I use "make a big step" in a sentence?

You can use "make a big step" to describe progress or improvement. For example, "The company needed to "make a big step" in innovation to stay competitive."

What can I say instead of "make a big step"?

You can use alternatives like "take significant strides", "advance considerably", or "progress substantially" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "make a big step" or "take a big step"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "make a big step" is more common and generally implies positive progress. "Take a big step" might suggest a riskier move. Choose the phrase that best fits the nuance you want to convey.