the next step is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the next step is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when outlining a process or indicating what action should be taken following a previous step. Example: "After completing the initial research, the next step is to analyze the data collected."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The next step is harder.

The New Yorker

The next step is compromise.

The New York Times

"The next step is film," she says.

Independent

The next step is to create jobs.

The New York Times

I wonder what the next step is.

The New Yorker

The next step is the stage show.

Independent

The next step is energy".

The Guardian

The next step is mutual adaptation.

The New York Times - Books

The next step is the Roman Colosseum".

The New York Times

The next step is ninja training".

The New York Times

The next step is for a W.T.O.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the next step is", ensure it logically follows the previous steps and is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "the next step is" without specifying what the next step actually involves. Be specific and avoid vague statements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the next step is" functions as a transitional phrase, indicating a progression or sequence of actions. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage in numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

24%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the next step is" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to indicate progression in a sequence. Ludwig AI confirms its wide applicability across various contexts, including news, science, and general instructions. While it maintains a neutral register, it's crucial to ensure clarity by specifying the actual next step. Alternatives include "the following action is" or "the subsequent stage is", each offering subtle variations in tone. By following these guidelines, writers can effectively use "the next step is" to guide readers through processes and plans.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

The subsequent action involves

Replaces "step" with "action" and uses "subsequent" for a more formal tone.

The following stage entails

Substitutes "step" with "stage" and uses "entails" for a more descriptive approach.

The immediate course of action is

Emphasizes the urgency or directness of the next action.

The logical progression involves

Highlights the rational or expected sequence of events.

The natural continuation is

Suggests a seamless flow from one action to the next.

The proceeding phase requires

Uses "phase" instead of "step" and specifies a requirement.

The approaching task consists of

Focuses on the task that is coming up next, rather than the process.

What follows is

A more concise and direct way of indicating the next action.

The impending move is

Implies a sense of anticipation or readiness for the next action.

The upcoming measure is

More appropriate when referring to concrete and measurable actions.

FAQs

How can I use "the next step is" in a sentence?

Use "the next step is" to introduce the subsequent action in a process or sequence. For example, "After gathering the data, "the next step is" to analyze it".

What are some alternatives to "the next step is"?

You can use phrases like "the following action is", "the subsequent stage is", or "the immediate course of action is" as alternatives.

Is it correct to say "the next step are" instead of "the next step is"?

No, it's incorrect. "Step" is singular, so it should be "the next step is". If referring to multiple steps, you might say, "the next steps are...".

How does "the next step is" differ from "the final step is"?

"The next step is" indicates one of several actions in a sequence, while "the final step is" indicates the last action needed to complete a process.