positive step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "positive step" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action or decision that is beneficial or leads to improvement in a situation. Example: "Implementing the new policy was a positive step towards enhancing employee satisfaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

That is a positive step.

The Economist

"It's a very positive step.

The Guardian

It's definitely a positive step.

The New York Times

"It was a positive step.

The New York Times

So NCTC is a positive step forward.

The New York Times

"We think this is a positive step".

The New York Times

This is a positive step forward.

The New York Times - Sports

I see this [as] a positive step.

The Guardian

It will be a really positive step.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It is a positive step.... MR. BLAIR -- Absolutely.

The New York Times

Some see it as a positive step others see loopholes.

MIT Technology Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "positive step" to highlight advancements or improvements in a situation. It's most effective when you want to convey optimism and forward movement, especially after periods of stagnation or difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "positive step" when the context already implies optimism or success, as it may sound redundant. Instead, use it to emphasize specific actions leading to progress in challenging situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "positive step" primarily functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "positive" modifies the noun "step". It describes an action, decision, or event considered beneficial or progressive. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "positive step" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that describes an action or decision leading to improvement. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. Predominantly found in news and media, formal business, and scientific contexts, it serves to highlight progress and express optimism. For enhanced writing, ensure the phrase is used in contexts where it genuinely emphasizes advancement and avoid redundancy. Alternatives like "favorable development" or "step in the right direction" can provide nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

step in the right direction

Indicates movement towards a desired goal or outcome.

beneficial move

Highlights the advantages and positive impact.

constructive action

Focuses on the helpful and building nature of the action.

significant progress

Emphasizes the importance and scale of the advancement.

favorable development

Emphasizes the beneficial nature of the development.

promising start

Highlights the initial success and future potential.

encouraging sign

Highlights that something is likely to lead to good results.

welcome improvement

Focuses on the aspect of enhancement and satisfaction.

a turn for the better

Highlights change and improvement in the situation.

advancement

Highlights the progress made.

FAQs

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

You can use "positive step" to describe an action or decision that leads to improvement. For example, "Implementing the new policy was a "positive step" towards enhancing employee satisfaction".

What are some alternatives to "positive step"?

You can use alternatives like "favorable development", "encouraging sign", or "step in the right direction" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a positive step forward"?

Yes, "a positive step forward" is grammatically correct and commonly used. The addition of "forward" emphasizes the directional progress, but it can sometimes be redundant since a step inherently implies forward movement. Consider using just ""positive step"" for conciseness.

What's the difference between "positive step" and "good start"?

"Positive step" implies progress or improvement from a previous state, while "good start" refers to the initial phase of something and its potential for future success. A ""positive step"" may not necessarily be a start, but rather an improvement made at any stage.