progress

/ˈprɑɡrɛs/
forward movement or development

The team made steady progress on the project.

The team continued to move forward in their work.


general

Forward or onward movement toward a destination or goal.

The construction of the bridge is in slow progress.

The bridge is being built gradually.

She documented her progress in her journal.

She recorded how far she had come in her work.

Often used with prepositions like 'in,' 'on,' or 'with.'

general

Development or improvement over time.

The student showed remarkable progress in math.

The student improved significantly in their math skills.

The company's progress in sustainability is notable.

The company has made significant strides in being eco-friendly.

Can refer to personal, professional, or societal advancement.

general

To move forward or develop toward a more advanced state.

The negotiations are progressing well.

The talks are advancing smoothly.

She progressed from beginner to advanced in three months.

She improved rapidly from a basic to a high skill level.

Often used with prepositions like 'from,' 'to,' or 'toward.'

Collocations

make progressto advance or improvein progresscurrently happening or being doneslow progressgradual or delayed advancementsteady progressconsistent and reliable improvement

Related Phrases

progress reportphrase
a document or presentation detailing developments or achievements
progress barphrase
a graphical representation of advancement in a task

Pro Tip

Use 'progress' vs. 'advance'

'Progress' emphasizes gradual improvement or movement, while 'advance' often implies a more direct or rapid forward movement. 'Progress' is more versatile for both physical and abstract contexts.

Gold Rule

Prepositions with 'progress'

Use 'in' for ongoing activities ('in progress'), 'on' for specific tasks ('progress on the project'), and 'with' for improvement ('progress with skills').

Word Origin

From Latin *progressus* (a going forward), from *progredi* (to go forward), from *pro-* (forward) + *gradi* (to walk). Entered English in the late 16th century.

Usage Notes

Commonly used in both literal (physical movement) and figurative (development) contexts. Often paired with 'make' in verb form ('make progress').

Word Breakdown

pro-
forward
prefix
+
-gress
to walk
root
English Dictionary