taking the first step

USAGE SUMMARY

"taking the first step" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the action of starting something, for example: "Taking the first step can be the hardest part of a process, but it's a necessary step in achieving success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But we're not even taking the first step".

The New York Times

Still, Mr Schily is taking the first step.

The Economist

How about, as the article mentions, taking the first step to volunteer to give back?

The New York Times

"It's even a crowning achievement that two Latinas should be the ones taking the first step".

The New York Times

Are passers-through just daydreaming, or taking the first step in making that dream real?

The New York Times

He said, faith is taking the first step, even when you can't see the whole staircase.

The New York Times

It's not always easy communicating that to others, but kudos to you for taking the first step.

Columbia University

For many people, taking the first step to meet with a counselor is often the most difficult part.

Columbia University

Mubarak "is taking the first step to open up the elections, and I think that's very, very important," she said.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Simply getting started--taking the first step--was the most difficult for more than 8 out of 10 survey respondents in PIL (28).

University of Chicago

Neil Armstrong taking the first step on the moon.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "taking the first step", ensure the context clearly indicates what the 'step' entails. Providing specific details enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "taking the first step" without specifying the goal or process it initiates. Vague usage diminishes the phrase's impact and informative value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking the first step" functions as a noun phrase acting as a gerund, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the action of initiating something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

8%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "taking the first step" is a commonly used phrase that signifies the initiation of a process or activity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts, from formal news reports to informal blogs. While versatile, it's most impactful when the context clarifies the specific action being undertaken. Related phrases, such as "initiating the process" or "beginning the journey", offer nuanced alternatives. Remember to avoid overgeneralization and clearly define the 'step' for optimal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiating the process

Focuses on the formal commencement of a series of actions or procedures.

beginning the journey

Stresses the start of a transformative experience or path.

embarking on the initial phase

Emphasizes the start of a longer journey or project, highlighting the beginning of a distinct period.

making an initial move

Highlights a strategic or calculated start, often in a competitive situation.

making the first move

Highlights a strategic or calculated start, often in a competitive situation.

commencing the endeavor

Highlights the beginning of a significant or challenging undertaking.

setting the wheels in motion

Suggests that starting the action will trigger a series of events or processes.

launching the project

Implies a more formal or organized start, often used in business or technical contexts.

getting the ball rolling

An informal expression emphasizing the importance of starting to generate momentum.

starting the ball rolling

An informal expression emphasizing the importance of starting to generate momentum.

FAQs

What does "taking the first step" mean?

The phrase "taking the first step" means beginning a process or activity, often implying that this initial action is the most challenging part.

How can I use "taking the first step" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe the initiation of any process, such as: "Taking the first step is always the hardest part of starting a new project".

What can I say instead of "taking the first step"?

You can use alternatives like "initiating the process", "beginning the journey", or "getting the ball rolling" depending on the context.

Why is "taking the first step" often considered difficult?

Because it involves overcoming inertia, uncertainty, and the fear of the unknown, making it a significant psychological barrier to initiating action.