take big steps

USAGE SUMMARY

"take big steps" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom that means to make progress rapidly and aggressively. For example, "In order to achieve her goals, she knew she had to take big steps and work hard."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

We need to work harder to take big steps".

The New York Times - Sports

"We're big, but we take big steps," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

Lloyd George said: 'Don't be afraid to take big steps.

The Guardian - Sport

"We need to take big steps or the problem will overwhelm us," she said.

The New York Times

Thus it pays to take big steps in installing new equipment.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We hear that you cannot take big steps, but he did it".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

"Take bigger steps, and breathe".

The New York Times - Travel

That clarity and resolve set her up to take bigger steps.

Harvard Business Review

If you have long legs or take bigger steps, stand a little farther back.

WikiHow

If you take bigger steps, you'll set the illusion that you walking faster.

WikiHow

StairMaster: Lean slightly forward and take bigger steps as though you're trying to climb 2 stairs at a time.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take big steps" when you want to emphasize substantial progress or a significant change in direction. It suggests ambition and a willingness to embrace bold actions.

Common error

While "take big steps" is widely applicable, avoid using it excessively in very informal or casual conversations. Simpler phrases might be more appropriate depending on the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take big steps" functions as a verb phrase, often used to describe the action of making significant progress or implementing substantial changes. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

14%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take big steps" is a widely used and grammatically correct expression that signifies making substantial progress or implementing significant changes. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is versatile and appropriate for various contexts, ranging from news reporting to personal encouragement. While generally neutral in tone, it is most frequently encountered in News & Media sources, and it implies a sense of ambition and determination. When writing, remember that while this idiom is considered acceptable, it should be used sparingly in very casual conversation. Alternatives such as "make significant strides" or "advance considerably" may offer a more nuanced way to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make significant strides

Emphasizes notable progress, focusing on the distance covered.

advance considerably

Highlights the degree of progress made.

achieve substantial progress

Focuses on the attainment of progress in a measurable way.

move forward decisively

Implies a strong and determined advancement.

make a quantum leap

Suggests a sudden and significant advancement, implying a transformation.

gain ground rapidly

Highlights the speed of advancement and overcoming obstacles.

push ahead forcefully

Emphasizes the strength and determination behind the advancement.

propel forward aggressively

Implies a very active and forceful advancement.

forge ahead successfully

Highlights the successful nature of the advancement despite possible challenges.

make headway substantially

Focuses on making clear and measurable progress.

FAQs

What does "take big steps" mean?

The phrase "take big steps" means to make significant progress or to take decisive actions toward achieving a goal. It implies a willingness to move forward boldly and ambitiously.

How can I use "take big steps" in a sentence?

You can use "take big steps" in a sentence to describe efforts toward improvement or advancement. For example, "The company needs to "take big steps" to improve its environmental impact."

What are some alternatives to "take big steps"?

Alternatives to "take big steps" include "make significant strides", "advance considerably", or "achieve substantial progress". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to "take big steps" or "take small steps"?

Whether it's better to "take big steps" or "take small steps" depends on the situation. "Take big steps" implies a rapid and decisive approach, while "take small steps" suggests a more gradual and cautious approach. Sometimes you should take baby steps