make the first step

USAGE SUMMARY

"make the first step" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea of starting something. For example, "To make a change, you must make the first step."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

They are demanding the Arabs make the first step.

The New York Times

The Arabs should not make the first step.

The New York Times

"The most difficult thing is to make the first step," Dmitry O. Rogozin, the ambassador, said.

The New York Times

I told him to make the first step, to call me, but he never did.

The New York Times - Magazine

Unless you make the first step you aren't going to get anywhere".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"The most difficult thing is to make the first step," he told reporters.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

It isn't us who will make the first steps".

The New York Times

The authors make the first steps toward reformulating the theory of vertex algebras in a way that is suitable for algebraic-geometric applications.

University of California, Berkeley

The technology to reach nearby planets is possible, at least to make the first steps there.

BBC

British Canoeing can help you make the first steps into racing.

BBC

This was positive in some ways to make the first steps in liberating myself.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When encouraging action, use "make the first step" to inspire confidence and reduce the perceived difficulty of starting something new. For example, "Don't be afraid to contact them; just "make the first step" and send an email."

Common error

Avoid making the "first step" too complex. Ensure that the initial action is simple and easily achievable to encourage momentum and prevent discouragement. For example, instead of planning an entire project, "make the first step" by outlining the initial tasks.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make the first step" functions primarily as an action-oriented idiom used to describe the initiation of a process or undertaking. As Ludwig AI states, it is a common English expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make the first step" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to encourage the initiation of an action or process. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. With a neutral register, it's suitable for various contexts, as evidenced by its frequent occurrence in News & Media. It emphasizes the importance of beginning a task and serves to motivate action. To enhance your writing, consider alternative phrases like "take the initiative" or "start the ball rolling" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take the first move

Highlights the act of starting, especially in a strategic or competitive situation.

take the initiative

Focuses on being proactive and taking charge, emphasizing personal agency.

begin the process

A more formal way of describing the initiation of a series of actions.

start the ball rolling

Implies initiating a process that others will then continue.

get the ball rolling

Similar to 'start the ball rolling', emphasizing the initiation of an activity or project.

kick things off

An informal way to say begin something, often an event or project.

set the wheels in motion

Suggests initiating a series of actions that lead to a particular outcome.

get underway

Emphasizes the beginning or commencement of a journey or task.

initiate proceedings

Typically used in legal or formal contexts to indicate the start of an official process.

embark on a journey

Signifies starting a new and often challenging endeavor.

FAQs

How can I encourage someone to "make the first step"?

Emphasize the simplicity and manageability of the initial action. Break down larger goals into smaller, more achievable steps, and highlight the potential positive outcomes of "taking the initiative".

What does it mean to "make the first step" in a negotiation?

It typically involves initiating communication, proposing an initial offer, or setting the agenda. "Taking the first move" can demonstrate confidence and a willingness to find a resolution.

Is "make the first step" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "make the first step" is suitable for various contexts, including formal writing. However, depending on the specific tone and audience, more formal alternatives like "initiate proceedings" or "begin the process" might be more appropriate.

What are some common reasons why people hesitate to "make the first step"?

Fear of failure, uncertainty about the outcome, or lack of confidence are common reasons. Addressing these concerns by providing support, information, and encouragement can help overcome this hesitation. Sometimes, "starting the ball rolling" can be the hardest part.