reasonable starting point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reasonable starting point" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing an initial estimate, suggestion, or basis for further discussion or analysis. Example: "The proposed budget serves as a reasonable starting point for our negotiations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But a reasonable starting point to examine the modern wars is May 14 , 1948

The New York Times

Other Republicans backed the measure, saying it was a reasonable starting point for getting Americans back to work.

The New York Times

The Wikipedia entry is a reasonable starting point for reviewing varied views of this body of science.

The New York Times

Admittedly, a classroom teacher's salary is not huge, but it's a reasonable starting point for a young man in his 20s.

The Guardian

I would suggest that somewhere in the range of 20% to 30% might be a reasonable starting point for further consideration.

Independent

Manipulating such visual variables should provide a reasonable starting point from which to visualize educational data.

Smart Learning Environments

But we think this chronology is a reasonable starting point that we hope will be of service to other researchers.

SERIEs

However, monolayer culture remains a reasonable starting point for assessment of new treatment options and the best possible method available.

Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology

Herein we propose the benzimidazole-2-one substructure as a suitable tryptophan mimic and thus a reasonable starting point for the design of p53 Mdm2 antagonists.

Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry

A reasonable starting point for gaining such insight is studying changes in streamflow given the importance of streamflow as a source of renewable freshwater.

Journal of Hydrology

The present model can be considered as a reasonable starting point for future refinements of the structure of this quite novel carbon material.

Carbon

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When proposing an initial course of action, use "reasonable starting point" to convey that it's a sensible but not necessarily definitive choice. This acknowledges potential alternatives and invites further refinement.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "reasonable starting point" as the only or best option. Ensure your language reflects that it's a pragmatic, rather than perfect, choice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reasonable starting point" functions as a qualifier to suggest that something is a pragmatic and logical, though not necessarily perfect, initial step in a process or plan. As Ludwig AI explains, the expression is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reasonable starting point" is a frequently used phrase that effectively conveys the idea of a pragmatic and sensible, but not necessarily ideal, initial step. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is commonly found in scientific, news, and business contexts. When using this phrase, remember that it suggests a practical approach open to further development. Consider alternatives like "sensible beginning" or "logical first step" to slightly shift the nuance. Remember not to confuse this with a perfect or only option. This analysis provides a "reasonable starting point" for understanding the usage of this valuable phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sensible beginning

Replaces "starting point" with a more general term for the initiation of something, emphasizing the soundness of the initial action.

logical first step

Highlights the step-by-step approach and emphasizes the rationale behind choosing that particular starting point.

practical foundation

Focuses on the idea of building something upon a solid base, suggesting stability and reliability.

workable basis

Implies that the starting point is not just theoretical but can be realistically applied and developed.

suitable groundwork

Similar to "practical foundation", but more suited for abstract concepts and processes.

tentative initial plan

Emphasizes the preliminary nature of the starting point, highlighting that it may be subject to change.

preliminary estimate

Specifically relates to numerical or quantitative contexts, suggesting an early calculation or assessment.

initial framework

Best used when discussing systems, structures, or sets of rules that are in the early stages of development.

provisional starting position

Highlights the temporary nature of the starting point and its potential to be adjusted as more information becomes available.

rudimentary jumping-off point

Emphasizes the basic, early nature of the point of departure, implying more development is needed.

FAQs

How can I use "reasonable starting point" in a sentence?

Use "reasonable starting point" when introducing an initial plan, suggestion, or assumption. For example, "The proposed budget serves as a "reasonable starting point" for our negotiations."

What are some alternatives to "reasonable starting point"?

You can use alternatives like "sensible beginning", "logical first step", or "practical foundation", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a reasonable start point" instead of "a reasonable starting point"?

While "start point" is understandable, "starting point" is the more common and idiomatic expression. Therefore, ""reasonable starting point"" is generally preferred.

What does it mean to describe something as a "reasonable starting point"?

Describing something as a ""reasonable starting point"" implies that it's a logical and practical initial step, but not necessarily the only possible or the ultimate solution. It suggests a pragmatic approach, open to further development and refinement.