taking the first steps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "taking the first steps" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the initial actions or efforts made towards achieving a goal or starting a process. Example: "After months of planning, we are finally taking the first steps towards launching our new product."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They're taking the first steps toward making themselves heard".

The New York Times

But we have started taking the first steps.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's good to see people like Mr Levy and Mr Lepeska taking the first steps.

The Economist

Get it right and you could be taking the first steps towards making your own blockbuster.

Independent

We are commending the supervisor for taking the first steps in having it come down".

The New York Times

"He is certainly capable of taking the first steps," he said.

The New York Times

And he may soon be taking the first steps on the road toward achieving that.

The New York Times

They are taking the first steps in the redesign of manufacturing systems.

Harvard Business Review

They are taking the first steps in their careers, but are making good progress.

The Telegraph

Be proud of yourself for taking the first steps to better understand your feelings about your parents' divorce!

Columbia University

The point is that during my freshman year, I was just taking the first steps toward finding my way.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "taking the first steps" to convey a sense of progress and initiation, especially when highlighting the initial actions in a longer process. For example: "The company is taking the first steps toward sustainable energy."

Common error

Ensure the phrase is used to genuinely represent the initial phase of an action or project, not when significant progress has already been made. "Taking the first steps" is most impactful when describing the very beginning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking the first steps" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It describes the action of beginning a process or undertaking. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's a valid and commonly used phrase. Examples in Ludwig show its use in diverse contexts from politics to personal development.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

18%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "taking the first steps" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that signifies the initiation of an action or process. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, from formal news reports to informal conversations. Predominantly found in "News & Media", with substantial presence in "Academia" and to some extent in "Science", this phrase effectively conveys a sense of commencement and progress. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects the initial stage of an action, and consider using more formal alternatives like "initiating the process" or "commencing operations" for professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiating the process

Emphasizes the commencement of a structured procedure or series of actions.

making initial moves

Highlights the strategic aspect of starting an action or project.

beginning the endeavor

Highlights the start of a challenging or ambitious project.

commencing operations

Implies a formal and structured beginning of activities.

embarking on a journey

Implies starting a significant undertaking with an unknown destination or outcome.

getting underway

Suggests the action is in progress of commencing a plan.

starting the ball rolling

Suggests setting in motion a series of events or actions.

laying the foundation

Focuses on establishing a base or groundwork for future development.

setting out on a path

Focuses on the decision to begin pursuing a specific direction or goal.

kicking things off

An informal way of saying beginning something, often an event or project.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "taking the first steps" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "initiating the process" or "commencing operations". These alternatives add a level of sophistication suitable for professional or academic contexts.

What's the difference between "taking the first steps" and "making progress"?

"Taking the first steps" emphasizes the initiation of an action, while "making progress" implies continued advancement. You "take the first steps" to begin, and then you "make progress" as you continue moving forward.

Is "taking the first step" or "taking the first steps" more appropriate?

While "taking the first step" can refer to a single initial action, "taking the first steps" often suggests a series of initial actions to start a process. The choice depends on whether you are referring to a single action or multiple actions taken to start something.

What are some more informal alternatives to "taking the first steps"?

Informal alternatives include "getting started", "kicking things off", or "starting the ball rolling". These options are suitable for casual conversations or less formal writing.