this is a welcome development

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of a sentence "this is a welcome development" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something is a positive development. For example: "The recent introduction of telemedicine services has been a welcome development for many rural communities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

This is a welcome development.

The Guardian

Comment: This is a welcome development.

The Guardian

The business secretary, Lord Mandelson, said: "This is a welcome development.

The Guardian

This is a welcome development after more than 18 months of hints, leaks and excuses.

The Guardian - Music

As cash and credit remain scarce, this is a welcome development.

The Economist

This is a welcome development, considering the rarity of the disease, with its limited treatment options and poor prognosis.

Chest

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

This was a welcome development, because relations between them had been touchy, at best.

The New York Times

Given North Korea's frightening arsenal and medieval view of the world, this was a welcome development at a tense time.

The New York Times

This was a welcome development, but it also confirmed the basic American paradox that with increasing democratization comes increasing demand for credentials that certify those who possess them as members of a distinctive elite.

The New York Times - Books

This was a welcome development.

Genetics in Medicine

Decisions can and must be made carefully, out of historic responsibility but without hysteria The Iranian-Israeli analyst, Meir Javedanfar, has this take on the blatant conflict of views: This contradiction is a welcome development.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow up the statement with an explanation of why the development is welcome to provide context and clarity to your audience.

Common error

While "this is a welcome development" is generally acceptable, avoid using it in extremely informal situations. Opt for simpler, more conversational alternatives like "that's great" or "good news" to maintain an appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is a welcome development" functions as an evaluative statement, expressing a positive assessment of a situation, event, or change. It signals approval and appreciation, as shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is a welcome development" is a commonly used phrase to express approval or satisfaction about a particular event or change. Ludwig's analysis confirms that it is grammatically correct and frequently found in reputable sources such as The Guardian, The New York Times and BBC. While it's generally acceptable, it's best to avoid using it in extremely informal situations, opting for simpler alternatives to maintain an appropriate tone. Remember to follow up the statement with an explanation to provide context and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

This is a positive development

Replaces "welcome" with the more general adjective "positive".

This is a good development

Uses "good" as a simpler synonym for "welcome".

This is an encouraging development

Focuses on the hopeful aspect of the development.

This is a promising development

Highlights the potential for future success or benefit.

This is a heartening development

Emphasizes the emotionally uplifting aspect.

This is a step in the right direction

Indicates progress towards a desired outcome.

This marks a turning point

Suggests a significant change in course.

This is cause for optimism

Presents the development as a reason to be hopeful.

This is a reason to celebrate

Suggests the development is significant enough to warrant celebration.

It's good news

Offers a brief and informal expression of approval.

FAQs

How can I use "this is a welcome development" in a sentence?

You can use "this is a welcome development" to express approval or satisfaction about a particular event or change. For instance, "The new policy regarding flexible work hours is a welcome development for many employees".

What can I say instead of "this is a welcome development"?

You can use alternatives like "this is a positive development", "this is an encouraging development", or "this is a step in the right direction" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "this is a welcome development" or "that is a welcome development"?

Both "this is a welcome development" and "that is a welcome development" are grammatically correct. "This" generally refers to something closer in proximity or time, while "that" refers to something more distant. Choose the pronoun that best fits the context.

What's the difference between "this is a welcome development" and "this is a new development"?

"This is a welcome development" expresses approval, while "this is a new development" simply indicates that something has recently occurred. The former carries a positive connotation, while the latter is neutral.