substantial step

USAGE SUMMARY

'substantial step' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a significant change or action that is made with a large degree of effort. For example, "The new legislation is a substantial step towards making the city safer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There, Ms. Gill Hearn said: "This guilty plea was a substantial step forward in this case.

The New York Times

An exit from Gaza would be a substantial step by any standard.

The Economist

He sees a substantial step forward too in other areas of public life, notably entertainment and athletics.

The Guardian

Providing access to comprehensive health services for all low-income Californians would be a substantial step towards a healthier state.

University of California, Berkeley

"This is a substantial step forward," Mr. Glantz said at a news conference that followed disclosure of the report.

The New York Times

This study provides a substantial step in the technology development required for the translation of this approach.

Biomaterials

But she said recent talks had led to "a very substantial step away from the frozen and distant relations of the past".

The New York Times

But here is the bottom line: we can embrace this accord, take a substantial step forward, and continue to refine it and build upon its foundation.

The Guardian

The specific issue for our determination is whether the defendant's actions constitute a "substantial step," under § 39-12-101(a)(3), toward the commission of that crime.

Harvard University

majority for determining whether a "substantial step" was taken, the evidence in this case is insufficient as a matter of law.

Harvard University

However, we do note that several courts charged with the responsibility of defining "substantial step" have adopted or applied the examples in the Model Penal Code.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "substantial step" to emphasize that a particular action or development is a significant move towards achieving a larger goal or resolving a complex issue. It is best used when the progress is clearly noticeable and impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "substantial step" for trivial advancements. Reserve it for situations where the progress is genuinely significant and represents a major move forward. Misusing it can dilute its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantial step" primarily functions as a noun phrase that describes a significant action or advancement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It often serves to highlight progress towards a goal or resolution of a problem.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "substantial step" is a noun phrase used to describe a noteworthy advancement. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and widely used in written English. The phrase carries a neutral to formal tone and is frequently encountered in news, scientific, and academic writing. Its usage conveys a significant degree of progress, emphasizing that the step taken is a major move forward. While versatile, it's best reserved for situations where the advancement is genuinely significant to maintain clarity and impact. Some alternatives that could eventually be good substitution are ""significant advancement"" or ""major breakthrough"".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant advancement

Emphasizes the forward movement and progress made.

major breakthrough

Highlights a sudden and significant discovery or achievement.

notable improvement

Focuses on the positive change and enhancement.

considerable progress

Stresses the amount and degree of advancement.

giant leap

Implies a dramatic and impactful advancement.

quantum leap

Suggests a fundamental and transformative change.

marked development

Highlights a clear and noticeable progression.

radical shift

Emphasizes a fundamental change in approach or direction.

momentous occasion

Indicates an important event or turning point.

turning point

Highlights a critical juncture or significant change in direction.

FAQs

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

You can use "substantial step" to describe a significant advancement or progress made towards a goal. For example, "The new policy is a "substantial step" towards environmental conservation".

What are some alternatives to "substantial step"?

Some alternatives to "substantial step" include "significant advancement", "major breakthrough", or "notable improvement" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "substantial step" in formal writing?

Yes, "substantial step" is appropriate for formal writing. It is often used in academic, scientific, and professional contexts to describe significant progress.

What's the difference between "substantial step" and "small step"?

"Substantial step" implies a significant amount of progress or change, whereas "small step" suggests a minor or incremental advancement. The choice between the two depends on the magnitude of the progress being described.