substantial first step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantial first step" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an important initial action or progress made towards a goal or objective. Example: "The new policy represents a substantial first step in addressing climate change and promoting sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"This is a very good and substantial first step," she said.

Los Angeles Times

But, along with actions on cars and trucks that have already been announced, they are a substantial first step.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Considerable more work is needed prior to initiating these types of studies, but the data provided here are novel and substantial first steps towards attaining these ambitious goals.

EMBO Molecular Medicine

These policy changes are a substantial and important first step in limiting unnecessary and overbroad requests for reporters' information and confidential sources.

The New Yorker

As Congress decides how to stimulate our ailing national economy and reinforce the fraying safety net, the first step should be substantial investments in state and local governments in order to infuse our economy with the energy it needs to recover, and to maintain current health care, education and other critical services.

Huffington Post

Finally, given that antibiotic resistance is now a major public health challenge, and that we might be entering a 'post-antibiotic era' (Woolhouse and Farrar, 2014), these findings could represent a substantial technological advance and an important first step to addressing the problem of diagnosing and properly treating enteric fever and other blood-borne infections.

eLife

The first step has been investigated in previous studies that showed that a substantial fraction of PCBs and lindane is mobilized from soil during artificial digestion.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Once a deficit has been identified, the first step is to prevent it getting any worse, which means stopping, or making substantial changes, to the pension provision on offer to new employees.

The Guardian

The first step leading from clinical symptoms and signs to a diagnosis relies on imaging in a substantial number of diseases.

Insights into Imaging

As a first step, the analysis is applied to a simple and smooth model of thick circular cylindrical shell having substantial axial length as used in actual stators.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Providing a substantial one-time tax credit to the rich beneficiaries who choose to forgo their Social Security entitlements would be an appropriate first step toward that vision.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly indicates what subsequent steps or actions are anticipated.

Common error

Avoid using "substantial first step" if the action is merely symbolic or lacks concrete results. Ensure the action genuinely contributes to a larger goal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantial first step" functions as a noun phrase that describes an action. It is used to emphasize the importance and significance of the initial action taken towards achieving a particular goal. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "substantial first step" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that signifies a significant initial action toward a specific objective. Ludwig's analysis, based on a review of reliable sources, indicates that the phrase is most commonly found in news and scientific contexts. While "substantial first step" isn't overly common, it effectively emphasizes the importance of the initial action and sets the stage for further developments. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the action's impact and contribution to the larger goal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant initial move

Emphasizes the importance of the action, replacing 'step' with 'move' for a slightly different nuance.

meaningful first action

Highlights the value and purpose of the action taken, rather than just the progression.

important initial step

Synonymous, focusing on the importance of the first action.

considerable initial effort

Shifts the focus to the effort involved in the first action, implying a degree of exertion.

notable preliminary measure

Replaces 'step' with 'measure', suggesting a more formal or official action.

key opening gambit

Suggests a strategic or calculated first action, often used in competitive contexts.

critical preliminary move

Highlights the necessity of the first move, essential to achieve an objective.

vital initial stage

Focuses on the stage or phase being the first, emphasizing the vitality of the initial phase.

primary introductory phase

Highlights the phase being introductory and primary, focusing on its core aspects.

major initial advance

Replaces 'step' with 'advance', suggesting forward momentum and progress.

FAQs

What does "substantial first step" mean?

The phrase "substantial first step" refers to an initial action that is significant and meaningful, indicating considerable progress or effort towards a larger goal.

What are some alternatives to "substantial first step"?

Alternatives include "significant initial move", "meaningful first action", or "important initial step", depending on the context.

How can I use "substantial first step" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe an important initial action. For example: "The new policy represents a "substantial first step" in addressing climate change and promoting sustainability."

Is "substantial first step" formal or informal?

The phrase "substantial first step" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but it's often used in professional and news-related environments.