next logical step

USAGE SUMMARY

"next logical step" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to refer to the next reasonable action that someone should take in order to progress towards an end goal or outcome. For example, "Now that you have identified the problem, the next logical step is to devise a plan to solve it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This is just the next logical step.

The New York Times

"An I.P.O. is the next logical step".

The New York Times

Let's skip to the next logical step.

The Washington Post

"This just seemed the next logical step.

The New York Times - Health

Planets were the next logical step.

The New York Times - Science

College is the next logical step.

The New York Times

Streaming is the next logical step".

The New York Times

Increasing sanctions is the next logical step.

The Washington Post

Space adventure is the next logical step to advancing civilisation.

The Guardian

Ascot has to be the next logical step.

The Guardian - Sport

The film's UK marketing team took the next logical step.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing "next logical step", ensure the preceding steps are well-defined to maintain coherence and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "next logical step" when the connection between steps is not immediately apparent to the reader. Explicitly state the reasoning to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "next logical step" primarily functions as a transitional phrase, signaling the progression from one action or idea to the subsequent one. It is commonly used to connect related concepts and indicate a sequence of events or reasoning. As Ludwig AI clarifies, this phrase is accurate and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Lifestyle

5%

Arts

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "next logical step" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, according to Ludwig AI. It serves as a transitional phrase to guide audiences through a sequence of actions or ideas, highlighting the rationality and coherence of the presented information. Predominantly found in news and media, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts. Remember to use this phrase when connecting clear progressions but avoid assuming the connections are self-evident. Consider alternatives like "next rational step" or "next sensible step" for nuanced contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

next rational step

Emphasizes reason and rationality as the basis for the progression.

next sensible step

Highlights the practicality and common sense aspect of the following action.

next reasonable step

Focuses on the justifiability and appropriateness of the subsequent action.

next natural step

Suggests an inherent or predictable sequence.

next inevitable step

Highlights the unavoidable nature of the progression.

next predictable step

Emphasizes the anticipated and foreseeable nature of the progression.

subsequent logical action

Rephrases 'step' with the more formal 'action'.

following logical action

Implies a direct succession based on reason.

ensuing logical action

Stresses the consequential nature of the next action.

the consequent action

Implies a causal relationship where the action is a direct result.

FAQs

How can I use "next logical step" in a sentence?

You can use "next logical step" to connect a series of actions or ideas, indicating a natural progression. For example, "After conducting the initial research, the "next logical step" is to analyze the data".

What are some alternatives to "next logical step"?

Alternatives include "next rational step", "next sensible step", or "next reasonable step", depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state the "next logical step"?

While not always necessary, explicitly stating the "next logical step" can improve clarity and ensure your audience understands the intended progression of ideas or actions.

What makes a step 'logical' in the context of "next logical step"?

A 'logical' step is one that follows naturally and reasonably from the previous step, based on established facts, reasoning, or common sense. It should be a clear and understandable progression.