takes a step ahead

USAGE SUMMARY

'takes a step ahead' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase can be used when referring to someone taking an action which moves them forward or closer to a certain goal. For example, "He took a step ahead by investing in new technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

My policy has been to ignore them, but today they've taken a step ahead, got a rise, however ironic, out of my man.

The New Yorker

And in one film, he took a step ahead of the times and brought them somewhere, I suspect, that he didn't intend for them to go.

The New Yorker

In this work we aim to take a step ahead in the development of the discipline by introducing a large amount of BFOA variants resulting from the combination of some advanced design decisions applied on Dasgupta et al.'s self-adaptive version.

Information Sciences

By launching it, it's taking a step ahead of other rivals like Rdio, which also offers following features but not the ability for them to be added across other sites.

TechCrunch

Ms. Jolie's Lara Croft takes being a step ahead of the villains as her natural right, and the movie needs her.

The New York Times

But the military has already taken a step back ahead of the withdrawal from Syria, independent monitors said.

The Washington Post

Many use Instagram's disappearing photo feature to display their wares, take orders and stay a step ahead of the law, according to one young author who said he supplements his income that way.

The New York Times

Hendrix can also be seen chatting with a very young Dick Cavett; he slyly takes over the conversation, staying a step ahead of his interviewer and getting off a couple of quick asides that play like fluttering arpeggios.

The New York Times

"And it doesn't take a lot to be a step ahead".

The New York Times - Tech

Twilio's bid to become the go-to platform for all of a business's external communication needs took a big step ahead today.

TechCrunch

Android's greatest strength over iOS - its superlative notification system - has also taken a further step ahead of its big rival with the redesign in Oreo.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "takes a step ahead" to illustrate intentional advancement or progress towards a specific objective. For instance, "The company took a step ahead by investing in renewable energy".

Common error

Avoid using "takes a step ahead" when describing unintentional or accidental progress. The phrase implies a deliberate action, so use alternative wording like "benefited" or "progressed" when describing passive improvements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "takes a step ahead" functions as a verb phrase indicating proactive advancement or progress. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "takes a step ahead" is a verb phrase used to describe deliberate advancement or progress. Ludwig AI identifies it as a correct and usable phrase, typically found in news and media, and science contexts. While not extremely common, its usage is grammatically sound. Related phrases include "makes progress" and "moves forward". When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects intentional progress and avoid using it in passive scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moves forward

A more general term for continuing or progressing.

makes progress

Focuses on the general act of advancing without specifying the manner.

advances forward

Highlights the forward movement, reinforcing the concept of progression.

gets ahead

Indicates achieving success or improvement, often in a competitive context.

gains an advantage

Emphasizes obtaining a beneficial position over others.

improves one's position

Focuses on enhancing one's standing or situation.

forges ahead

Implies determined and persistent movement despite challenges.

makes headway

Suggests overcoming obstacles and making noticeable progress.

gains ground

Emphasizes increasing influence or success.

proves advancement

Underlines the verification of progress achieved.

FAQs

How can I use "takes a step ahead" in a sentence?

Use "takes a step ahead" to describe a deliberate action that leads to progress or advancement. For example, "The new policy "takes a step ahead" in environmental conservation".

What are some alternatives to "takes a step ahead"?

Alternatives include "makes progress", "gains an advantage", or "moves forward", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "took a step ahead" instead of "takes a step ahead"?

Yes, "took a step ahead" is the past tense of the phrase and is grammatically correct when describing an action that has already occurred.

What is the difference between "takes a step ahead" and "takes a leap forward"?

"Takes a step ahead" implies gradual progress, while "takes a leap forward" suggests a more significant or rapid advancement.