measured steps

USAGE SUMMARY

'measured steps' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express the idea of taking careful, precise movements, for example: The diver took measured steps along the seabed, her eyes searching the murky depths below.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Infectious diseases don't move forward in measured steps.

The New Yorker

The State Troopers Fraternal Association has thus far been supportive of his measured steps.

The New York Times

The dog took measured steps and moved down the table in a straight line.

The New York Times

Next time around we need to take more measured steps, more firm steps.

The New York Times

Mr. Shehadeh took measured steps down a trail lined with sage, Syrian thistle, flowering oregano and wild artichoke.

The New York Times - Books

But teachers believe that what their school most desperately needs is consistency, with measured steps toward change.

The New York Times

And in general she has taken strong but measured steps since.

The New York Times - Arts

Dr. Michael Roizen marches, in steady, measured steps, at the forefront of the upright workers movement.

The New York Times

Each of these measured steps are jumping off points for further analysis by IT or the developers of the software.

Yale University

Mr. Nesler and Bruce Rosenlund of the Fish and Wildlife Service said the recovery team had taken measured steps all along.

The New York Times

Pedrito, wearing a green-and-gold Lycra costume and pink knee socks, shimmied within inches of the bull with several small, measured steps.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing strategic decision-making or policy implementation, use "measured steps" to convey a sense of careful planning and controlled execution.

Common error

Avoid using "measured steps" in casual conversations or informal writing where simpler terms like "careful actions" or "deliberate moves" might be more appropriate. The phrase has a somewhat formal tone that may sound unnatural in everyday settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "measured steps" typically functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun, often used to describe a way of proceeding or implementing a plan. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "measured steps" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that indicates a deliberate and cautious approach to actions or progress. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage across diverse contexts. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and academic sources, it carries a neutral to professional tone. While "measured steps" effectively conveys careful planning, writers should consider the formality of the context and choose simpler alternatives when appropriate, such as "calculated actions" or "deliberate measures". The phrase's emphasis on thoughtfulness makes it a valuable tool for describing strategic decision-making and policy implementation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

calculated actions

Focuses on the deliberate and planned nature of the steps, emphasizing forethought.

deliberate measures

Highlights the careful consideration taken before acting, differing from steps in its broader application.

considered actions

Emphasizes thoughtfulness and evaluation in the approach, similar to calculated actions.

cautious approach

Stresses the careful and prudent way of proceeding, shifting the focus from individual steps to the overall method.

prudent measures

Implies wisdom and good judgment in the actions taken, diverging from steps in its generality.

gradual progress

Highlights the slow and incremental advancement, changing from the specific actions to the overall outcome.

step-by-step process

Emphasizes the sequential nature of the actions, adding more focus on the methodology.

methodical steps

Focuses on the systematic and organized manner of the steps, adding a layer of structured procedure.

incremental changes

Stresses the gradual and progressive alterations made, broadening the scope from steps to modifications.

steady progress

Highlights the consistent and stable advancement, modifying steps to mean consistent actions.

FAQs

How can I use "measured steps" in a sentence?

You can use "measured steps" to describe a process that involves careful and deliberate actions. For example, "The company is taking "measured steps" to reduce its carbon footprint".

What are some alternatives to saying "measured steps"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "calculated actions", "deliberate measures", or "cautious approach".

Is "measured steps" formal or informal?

"Measured steps" tends to be more formal and is often used in professional or academic contexts. Simpler alternatives might be preferred in informal settings.

What does "measured steps" imply about the actions being taken?

"Measured steps" implies that the actions are being taken carefully, deliberately, and with a specific goal in mind. It suggests a thoughtful and controlled approach.