this is a first step

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "this is a first step" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to signify a beginning or introduction to a process. For example: "We are launching a new campaign to increase customer engagement - this is a first step to achieving that goal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

This is a first step".

The New York Times

"This is a first step," he said.

The New York Times

This is a first step towards automatic thesaurus acquisition.

Harvard University

"This is a first step, but it's not enough".

The New York Times

"This is a first step," Ms. Grealy said.

The New York Times

"For the Liberal Democrats this is a first step.

The Guardian

"This is a first step," Mr. Yang said.

The New York Times

This is a first step, not an end product".

The New York Times

"This is a first step, but we cannot stop here".

The New York Times

"This is a first step," Mr. Ratcliffe of Barclays said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"[This is] a first step that warrants a closer look".

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is a first step" to clearly signal the initiation of a longer or more complex process. It sets expectations and provides context for subsequent actions.

Common error

Avoid using "this is a first step" when the action is actually a complete solution or has no intended follow-up. Ensure there are genuine subsequent steps planned or implied.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is a first step" functions as an introductory statement, indicating the commencement of a process or journey. Ludwig's examples confirm its role in setting expectations for future actions and providing context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Unknown/unmatched sources

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is a first step" serves as a common and versatile phrase to indicate the beginning of a process or journey. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, with its primary function being to signal initiation and intention. While neutral in register, it is most frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts. When using the phrase, consider if the action truly represents the start of something bigger and avoid overstating its significance. Several alternatives exist, such as "this is an initial move" or "this marks the beginning", allowing for nuanced expression while maintaining similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is an initial move

Replaces "first step" with "initial move", emphasizing the action as a starting point.

this marks the beginning

Focuses on the commencement aspect, using "beginning" instead of "step".

this is a preliminary action

Substitutes "first step" with "preliminary action", highlighting the preparatory nature.

this is a starting point

Emphasizes the commencement aspect using "starting point" which is more generic.

this represents the onset

Uses more formal language, replacing "first step" with "the onset", indicating the start of something.

this serves as an introduction

Highlights the introductory nature of the action, different words, similar meaning.

this constitutes a foundation

Presents the action as a base or groundwork using "foundation".

this is the opening gambit

Implies a strategic start, replacing "first step" with a more metaphorical expression.

this is a primary phase

Replaces "first step" with "primary phase", specifying this initial moment as part of something bigger.

this is a nascent stage

Uses more sophisticated language, indicating the beginning of development.

FAQs

How can I use "this is a first step" in a sentence?

Use "this is a first step" to introduce an action that begins a process, implying more actions will follow. For example, "Implementing this new software is a first step towards automating our workflow".

What are some alternatives to "this is a first step"?

You can use alternatives like "this is an initial move", "this marks the beginning", or "this is a starting point" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "this is a first step forward"?

While not grammatically incorrect, "this is a first step forward" can be seen as redundant because a step is inherently forward-moving. "This is a first step" is usually sufficient.

What's the difference between "this is a first step" and "this is the first step"?

"This is a first step" indicates one of many possible initial actions. "This is the first step" implies a specific, predetermined initial action in a sequence.