the opening move

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the opening move" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts such as games, strategies, or discussions where an initial action or decision is being referenced. Example: "In chess, the opening move can set the tone for the entire game."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

It was the opening move that eluded him.

The New York Times - Magazine

But the pose was apparently just the opening move in a 10-second breakdance routine.

The Guardian

"We're still waiting to see if the US president will come here for the opening move.

The Guardian

Deutsche Börse which runs the Frankfurt market, Europe's third-largest, and does much more besides has made the opening move.

The Economist

The proposals are just the opening move in what are expected to be long and contentious negotiations.

The New York Times

So on Sept. 28, Mr. Chamitoff, who had been on the space station since June, made the opening move.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

The opening moves were dramatic.

The Guardian - Sport

Were the attacks the opening moves of a military invasion?

The Guardian - Tech

This situation found its political moment in the opening moves of the War on Cancer.

The New Yorker

The opening moves were played quickly, as Karpov defended with a solid queen's gambit declined.

The New York Times

But the opening moves in the central highlands were so successful that they went for broke in 1975.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the opening move", ensure it accurately reflects the initial action or decision that sets the stage for subsequent events. Consider if a more specific term, such as "the initial step" or "the first phase", might provide greater clarity.

Common error

While "the opening move" is widely applicable, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations where simpler alternatives like "the beginning" or "the start" would sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the opening move" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject or object within a sentence. It refers to the initial action or step taken in a strategy, negotiation, or other endeavor. Examples provided by Ludwig illustrate its usage in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

13%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the opening move" is a noun phrase used to describe the initial action in a strategic endeavor. It's grammatically correct, commonly used, and suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and general discussions as reported by Ludwig. While versatile, be mindful of overuse in informal settings, where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. The phrase enjoys consistent use across authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, reinforcing its legitimacy and utility in formal and semi-formal communication. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage and availability of suitable alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the initial step

This alternative focuses on the commencement of an action or process, emphasizing the first action taken.

the first action

This alternative highlights the commencement of an activity, emphasizing the first action taken.

the first phase

This alternative focuses on the first stage of a multi-stage process.

the starting point

This alternative shifts the focus to the beginning or origin of a process or journey.

the preliminary action

This phrase refers to an action that prepares for something more important.

the lead-off

This alternative presents an analogy to baseball, indicating the beginning of a turn or sequence.

the kickoff

This alternative highlights the start of something, especially in sports or projects.

the inaugural gesture

This option denotes the commencement of something formal or ceremonial.

the initiation

This alternative emphasizes the commencement of an activity, process, or membership.

the groundbreaker

This choice implies an innovation or a decisive step that others will follow.

FAQs

How can "the opening move" be used effectively in a sentence?

"The opening move" is often used to describe the initial action in a strategy, negotiation, or competition. For example, "Declaring their demands was "the opening move" in the salary negotiations."

What are some alternatives to "the opening move"?

Alternatives to "the opening move" include phrases like "the initial step", "the first action", or "the starting point" depending on the specific context.

Is "the opening move" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "the opening move" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing strategic actions or initial phases in business, politics, or academic analysis. It's a clear and concise way to describe the beginning of a process.

What's the difference between "the opening move" and "the first step"?

While both refer to the beginning of an action, "the opening move" often implies a strategic or calculated start, particularly in competitive situations, whereas "the first step" is more general and can apply to any initial action in a process or task.