promising starts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "promising starts" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe initial efforts or beginnings that show potential for success or positive outcomes. Example: "The project had several promising starts, but it ultimately failed to gain traction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

You've experienced promising starts and a succession of disappointing trials.

The New York Times - Health

As ever, this year's program is a mix of strong artistic statements, promising starts and brow-furrowing curiosities.

The New York Times

After years of promising starts, followed by disappointing test scores, some teachers say they are looking less for a miracle than for something to give them hope.

The New York Times

AOL's new initiatives with Project Devil, Patch, and video are promising starts.

TechCrunch

Both men were major acquisitions for the north London club but fell out of favour after promising starts.

BBC

Two of the bigger imports to Brazilian football made promising starts over the weekend.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Big pharmaceutical companies often put stakes in promising start-ups.

Science Magazine

These findings represent a promising starting point for further investigations of these diseases.

Briefings in Functional Genomics

The selected drug candidates were promising starting points for future studies.

BMC Systems Biology

Sca-1+/CD31 CPCs may be promising starting material to produce cells for cardiac regeneration.

BMC Biotechnology

Up to now several compound classes have been identified as promising starting points for drug development.

ACS Chemical Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "promising starts", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the beginnings promising. Specify the potential benefits or positive indicators that justify the assessment.

Common error

Avoid using "promising starts" without concrete evidence. Ensure there are tangible reasons for optimism rather than relying on vague hopes or unsubstantiated claims.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "promising starts" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, typically used to characterize the initial phase of an endeavor, project, or process. It suggests that these beginnings exhibit positive qualities or potential that could lead to future success. Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "promising starts" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes initial phases showing potential for success. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is valid in English writing. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it conveys optimism and positive expectations. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context provides specific reasons supporting the assessment of potential. Alternatives include "auspicious beginnings" and "bright starts". It is crucial to avoid overstating the promise without tangible evidence, while also maintaining a neutral register suitable for conveying information objectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Bright starts

Focuses on the potential and positive outlook associated with the initial phase.

Auspicious beginnings

Emphasizes the favorable or lucky nature of the initial stage.

Good head starts

Emphasizes gaining an early advantage.

Encouraging kickoffs

Highlights the positive and motivating aspect of the initial launch.

Hopeful onsets

Focuses on the optimism and anticipation associated with the commencement.

Favorable launches

Indicates that the start was advantageous and well-received.

Notable takeoffs

Highlights the noteworthy nature of the launch or commencement.

Positive commencements

Stresses the affirmative and upbeat character of the beginning.

Impressive lead-ins

Focuses on the effectiveness of the introductory phase.

Propitious initiations

Highlights the advantageous conditions under which something begins.

FAQs

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

You can use "promising starts" to describe initial efforts that show potential for success. For example, "The company's new marketing campaign had "promising starts", with increased website traffic and positive customer feedback".

What are some alternatives to "promising starts"?

Alternatives include "auspicious beginnings", "encouraging kickoffs", or "bright starts", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "promising starts" is suitable for formal writing. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct and usable phrase in written English and its presence in reputable news sources shows its appropriateness for professional contexts.

What is the difference between "promising starts" and "false starts"?

"Promising starts" refers to initial efforts that show potential for success, while "false starts" refers to initial attempts that fail or are misleading. The key difference lies in the outcome and potential of the initial phase.