about to ascend

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "about to ascend" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something is on the verge of rising or moving upward, often in a metaphorical or literal sense. Example: "The rocket is about to ascend into the sky, marking the beginning of its journey to the stars."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

At least one: Be nice to your fellow New Yorker; you never know who's about to ascend.

The New York Times - Arts

At nine o'clock in the morning Emperor Akihito informed his ancestors that he was about to ascend the throne.

The Guardian

But to the extent that the runway is a pedestal, and dressmakers are her servants, the lady is about to ascend.

The New York Times

And just as I was about to ascend the stairway, a guy came running down the stairs two steps at a time.

The New York Times - Books

But just as he was about to ascend to the summit, China was drowned in rumors about the anointed leader's health, rumors ranging from back trouble to a stroke to a heart attack.

The New York Times

While Randolph is about to ascend to a job that presumably pushes him closer to following Torre, he said he would not view the promotion as a sign that he was the heir apparent.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Over the last 12 months, commercial aircraft values have fallen by an average of about 15percentto20percentcent, according to Ascend.

The New York Times

After defying suspicions about his Irish background to ascend to one of the most senior roles in the civil service, Fergus Allen continued to confound expectations by becoming an acclaimed poet in his seventies.

The Times

For those below Mr. Solomon and Mr. Schwartz, there is less clarity about who is most likely to ascend the ladder.

The New York Times

Over the last 12 months, commercial aircraft values have fallen by an average of about 15 to 20percentt, according to Ascend.

The New York Times

In other recent recessions, wages began to ascend after about nine months of declines; this time they have continued to fall over the past 21 months.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "about to ascend" to create a sense of anticipation or imminence, suggesting that something significant is on the verge of happening. This phrase is effective in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "about to ascend" in contexts where simpler alternatives like "going to rise" or "ready to go up" would suffice. The phrase carries a certain weight, so reserve it for situations where a more elevated or formal tone is appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "about to ascend" functions as a verb phrase indicating an imminent action. It describes a state of readiness or preparation for rising or moving upward, often suggesting a transition to a higher level or position. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "about to ascend" is a grammatically sound verb phrase used to express the imminent rise or upward movement of something, often in a significant or anticipated manner. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and applicable in different writing styles. While the phrase is most frequently encountered in the news and media, it can also appear in encyclopedic or scientific contexts. To avoid overuse, consider more direct alternatives, like "on the verge of rising" or "ready to climb", in simpler contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the verge of rising

Focuses on the imminence of an upward movement or elevation.

on the brink of promotion

Specifically highlights the nearness of a professional advancement.

ready to climb

Emphasizes preparedness and intention for upward movement or progress.

on the cusp of elevation

Implies being at the edge of a significant rise or increase in status.

nearing ascension

Highlights the approaching attainment of a higher level or position.

at the point of rising

Stresses the exact moment just before an upward movement begins.

about to be elevated

Focuses on the action of being raised to a higher rank or status.

on the threshold of ascent

Uses a metaphor of crossing a boundary into a higher state or position.

ready for takeoff

Employs the imagery of an aircraft preparing to ascend into the sky.

on the climb

Simple phrase focusing on the upward trajectory.

FAQs

How can I use "about to ascend" in a sentence?

The phrase "about to ascend" indicates that something is on the verge of rising or moving upward, either literally or figuratively. Example: "The stock price is about to ascend, according to analysts".

What are some alternatives to "about to ascend"?

You can use alternatives like "on the verge of rising", "ready to climb", or "nearing ascension" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "about to be ascend"?

No, "about to be ascend" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "about to ascend", where "ascend" acts as the verb. You could also say "about to be ascended" if something is being raised by an external force.

What's the difference between "about to ascend" and "ascending"?

"About to ascend" indicates an action that is on the point of beginning. For example: "The balloon is about to ascend". "Ascending", on the other hand, describes an action that is already in progress. For example: "The balloon is ascending rapidly".