promising start

USAGE SUMMARY

"promising start" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation that has had a favorable beginning and shows potential for success in the future. For example, "The job interview was a promising start, and I'm optimistic about the outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

A promising start.

The Economist

Hardly a promising start.

Independent

Thunderbolt was a promising start.

The New York Times - Travel

"Aria" is a promising start.

The New York Times - Arts

It was a promising start.

The New York Times - Sports

True, it's a promising start.

The New York Times

This is a promising start.

The Guardian

IT WAS not a promising start.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

It is not a promising start.

The Guardian

PHILADELPHIA — Lorenzo Compton did not have a promising start.

The New York Times

In this context, PubChem is a promising start.

ChemMedChem

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "promising start", ensure that subsequent actions align with the initial promise to maintain credibility. For example, if a project has a promising start, allocate resources effectively to sustain momentum.

Common error

Avoid using "promising start" as a guarantee of future success. It simply indicates potential. For example, instead of saying "The promising start ensured a successful outcome", acknowledge potential challenges with "Despite the promising start, challenges remain ahead".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "promising start" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "promising" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "start". This phrase typically describes an initial stage or beginning that shows potential for success, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "promising start" is a commonly used phrase to describe a positive and hopeful beginning with potential for future success. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, business, and scientific domains. Remember to use it judiciously, acknowledging that a promising beginning does not guarantee a successful outcome. Alternative phrases such as "auspicious beginning" or "encouraging kickoff" can add nuance, and steering clear of overstating future achievements will enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

auspicious beginning

Emphasizes the favorable or fortunate nature of the start.

encouraging kickoff

Highlights the optimistic and supportive nature of the start.

favorable introduction

Focuses on the positive and advantageous aspect of the initial presentation or launch.

optimistic launch

Underlines the hopeful and positive outlook associated with the start.

positive commencement

Stresses the affirmative and constructive nature of the beginning.

successful initiation

Indicates that the start has achieved some level of success or achievement.

propitious launch

Highlights the advantageous and opportune nature of the start.

bright start

Implies a positive and hopeful initial stage.

good head start

Focuses on having an early advantage or progress.

positive jump-start

Emphasizes the energetic and affirmative nature of the start.

FAQs

How can I use "promising start" in a sentence?

You can use "promising start" to describe an endeavor's positive beginning. For example, "The new initiative had a "promising start", with high initial engagement levels".

What are some alternatives to "promising start"?

Alternatives include "auspicious beginning", "encouraging kickoff", or "favorable introduction", each conveying a slightly different nuance of a positive commencement.

Is it appropriate to use "promising start" in formal writing?

Yes, "promising start" is suitable for formal writing. However, consider alternatives like "auspicious beginning" for a more elevated tone in certain contexts.

What does it mean when something is described as having a "promising start"?

It means that the initial phase of something, such as a project or endeavor, shows positive signs and potential for future success. However, a "promising start" does not guarantee eventual success.