take definite steps

USAGE SUMMARY

"take definite steps" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when talking about someone taking specific and concrete actions towards a goal or problem. For example: "We need to take definite steps to address the issue of climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"We needed to take definite steps to reverse the trend.

The New York Times

Maybe you can't eliminate it completely in 90-days, but you can take definite steps to reduce your business's exposure to this danger.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

He said: "It's a very positive move because the FA have asked Asian communities what they want  and are taking definite steps to tackle the situation.

Independent

But even if the bill passes when it is voted on later this summer, the Administration has made it clear that sanctions will remain in place until Cuba takes definite steps towards further democratization, and improves its human-rights record a key element of which would be the freeing of its political prisoners.

The New Yorker

But even if the bill passes when it is voted on later this summer, the Administration has made it clear that sanctions will remain in place until Cuba takes definite steps towards further democratization, and improves its human-rights record — a key element of which would be the freeing of its political prisoners.

The New Yorker

"I expected her to take definite action," he told me.

The New Yorker

An interior ministry source in Paris said the government would in any case be unable to take any definite steps towards closing Sangatte before next month's general elections confirmed its mandate.

The Guardian

The findings of this study indicate that the provider organisation has taken several definite steps towards building the cultural competence of the organisation.

BMC Health Services Research

After CT taking, definite diagnosis as herniation was made.

Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Quality takes a definite step upwards at five puttonyos, and so does price, though our best value, the 2000 five puttonyos Red Label from Royal Tokaji, is an excellent introduction at $35, exhibiting a fine balance between fruity sweetness and taut acidity.

The New York Times

1937 London Urges Armistice LONDON — The British government has taken the first definite step to bring about a cessation of hostilities in Spain by proposing an armistice during which the foreign volunteers fighting on both sides might be withdrawn.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take definite steps", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific actions are being taken or should be taken. For example, specify the steps to improve clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "take definite steps" without clarifying what those steps are. If the actions remain undefined, the phrase becomes weak and lacks actionable meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take definite steps" functions as a directive, urging or recommending specific actions to be undertaken. It emphasizes the need for concrete and well-defined measures to address a particular issue or achieve a specific goal, as indicated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take definite steps" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize the need for clear, concrete actions. As Ludwig AI points out, it's a correct and usable phrase that promotes specific actions towards a goal. While its frequency is uncommon, it appears predominantly in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. To maximize its impact, ensure you clearly define the 'definite steps' you are referring to, avoiding vagueness. Alternatives like "implement specific measures" or "undertake decisive action" can provide subtle variations in meaning and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take concrete actions

Replaces "steps" with "actions", emphasizing the performance of specific tasks.

implement specific measures

Focuses on the implementation of particular actions, rather than just the concept of taking steps.

undertake decisive action

Highlights the element of decision-making and resolve in the actions taken.

initiate firm measures

Emphasizes the beginning of strong actions.

adopt a proactive approach

Highlights the forward-thinking and preventive nature of the actions.

move decisively forward

Emphasizes forward movement and a clear decision-making process.

take tangible actions

Focuses on actions that produce a visible or measurable result.

enact specific policies

Highlights the formal implementation of rules or guidelines.

advance purposefully

Focuses on making progress with clear intention and direction.

make determined efforts

Stresses the dedication and intensity of the actions undertaken.

FAQs

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

You can use "take definite steps" when you want to emphasize the importance of taking concrete and specific actions towards a particular goal. For example, "The company must "take definite steps" to reduce its carbon footprint."

What are some alternatives to "take definite steps"?

Alternatives include "implement specific measures", "undertake decisive action", or "adopt a proactive approach", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "take definite steps" or "take concrete steps"?

Both "take definite steps" and "take concrete steps" are grammatically correct and semantically similar. The choice depends on the specific context. "Definite" emphasizes clarity and precision, while "concrete" emphasizes tangibility and practicality. They are largely interchangeable, so the difference is often stylistic.

What does it mean to "take definite steps"?

To ""take definite steps"" means to perform specific, well-defined actions with a clear goal in mind. It implies moving beyond vague intentions and committing to tangible actions.