obvious step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "obvious step" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a clear or straightforward action that should be taken in a process or situation. Example: "After analyzing the data, the obvious step is to implement the recommended changes immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Requiring effective reforms may seem like an obvious step.

The New York Times

For Clarke such an apology seemed an obvious step.

The Guardian

More Paralympic sport in the media is one obvious step.

The Guardian - Sport

One clear and obvious step is to allow "underlay".

The Economist

To keep working together was an obvious step.

Independent

I'm researching what is the next step, not what is the obvious step".

The New York Times - Arts

Synchronizing them in one universal mailbox on all his computers seemed an obvious step, he said.

The New York Times - Tech

It's not an obvious step that you would terminate an affected pregnancy".

The New York Times - Magazine

One obvious step would be a cut in the taxation of income from corporate capital.

The New York Times

An obvious step to douse the flames would be to recapitalise European banks.

The Economist

Such a job has never been an obvious step to grander things.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "logical action" or "sensible measure" to avoid repetition and add nuance to your writing. Different synonyms can emphasize different aspects of the step, such as its rationality, practicality, or clarity.

Common error

While the phrase "obvious step" suggests clarity, avoid assuming that what is obvious to you is obvious to everyone. Always provide sufficient context to ensure your audience understands the reasoning behind the step, preventing potential confusion or misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obvious step" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object. It identifies a particular action or measure as being easily apparent and logically justified. As Ludwig AI suggests, it emphasizes clarity and straightforwardness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "obvious step" is a commonly used noun phrase to denote a clear, logical, and easily apparent course of action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific writing, its usage aims to highlight actions considered sensible or self-evident. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, remember to provide sufficient context to ensure clarity for your audience, avoiding assumptions about shared understanding. Consider using synonyms such as "logical action" or "natural progression" to enhance your writing and avoid redundancy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

logical action

Emphasizes the reasoning behind the step.

natural progression

Highlights the sequential and expected nature of the step.

clear course of action

Focuses on the clarity and direction provided by the step.

sensible measure

Stresses the practicality and good judgment involved.

evident move

Underscores the easily noticeable or apparent nature of the step.

plain solution

Highlights the simplicity and directness of the step as a resolution.

straightforward approach

Focuses on the uncomplicated method of the step.

uncomplicated procedure

Emphasizes the lack of complexity in the process.

simple solution

Stresses the ease and directness of the solution.

reasonable approach

Highlights the rationale and justification behind the approach.

FAQs

How can I use "obvious step" in a sentence?

You can use "obvious step" to indicate a clear or logical action to take. For example: "After analyzing the data, the "obvious step" is to implement the recommended changes immediately."

What are some alternatives to "obvious step"?

You can use alternatives like "logical action", "natural progression", or "clear course of action" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "obvious step"?

While "obvious step" is generally acceptable, it's essential to ensure that the step truly is clear to your audience. If there's any chance of confusion, it's better to provide more context or use a less assertive phrase.

What's the difference between "obvious step" and "necessary step"?

"Obvious step" implies that the action is clear and logical, while "necessary step" suggests that the action is essential for achieving a goal. An "obvious step" is easily apparent, whereas a "necessary step" might require more explanation to understand its importance.