abreast of the times

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "abreast of the times" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means to be current or up-to-date with the latest developments or trends. Example: Our company prides itself on staying abreast of the times, constantly updating our technology and strategies to stay ahead of the competition.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"It's extraordinary, the way she's kept abreast of the times".

Independent

It laid down fundamental rules that remained unchanged through the book's many printings, although Post took care to remain abreast of the times in dealing with broad changes in society.

Britannica

Really, "Tempo" seems like yet another summer group show, more elaborate and philosophical than most, befitting the Modern, with some good art and some not good art, invented partly so as not to monopolize attention during the hoopla of the opening while establishing the museum's desire to keep both abreast of the times and contemporary art in the foreground.

The New York Times - Arts

The new songs drip with the heroism and reggae glory of the Clash's heyday, but also show that the man has kept abreast of the times, right down to dance beats and speeches inspired by last week's Guardian (the sole protester at the anniversary of Tiananmen Square) and the morning's Liverpool Echo (about Pete Wylie, who owes him a fiver).

The Guardian

"I'm an old-timer myself and perhaps it's not fair to say, but maybe he wasn't quite abreast of the times". Mr. Dunn, a recent widower who has been in public life since he ran for City Council in 1952, was elected to the State Assembly last November, having served in the Senate years before.

The New York Times

It is the 21st century now and we must keep abreast of the times".

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

There's a fireplace to keep everyone warm during the cold nights, and a clock atop the mantle keeps all abreast of the time.

Huffington Post

It's allowed in the UK's Highway Code, and there are similar statutes in state vehicle codes in the U.S. Motorists – unless their automobiles concertina like Autobots from the Transformers movie – ride two abreast all of the time, even when driving solo.

Forbes

With his sense of moral outrage, he kept abreast of the passions of the times, whether the railroading of the innocent, the threat of nuclear holocaust, the repressed consciousness of the Nazi Holocaust, police corruption, rising crime, or corporate malfeasance.

The New Yorker

Thus does the Empire keep abreast with the times.

The New Yorker

It's also a great way to keep abreast of the news in real time.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "abreast of the times", ensure that the context clearly indicates what specific 'times' or trends you are referring to. For example, specify 'abreast of the latest technological advancements' for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "abreast of the times" when referring to a very specific or niche topic. This phrase is best suited for broader trends or general knowledge, not for highly specialized information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "abreast of the times" functions as an adjective phrase. It typically modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating that the subject is informed and up-to-date with current trends. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "abreast of the times" is a correct and usable idiomatic phrase that means staying informed and up-to-date with the latest developments. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and can be effectively used in written English. While not extremely common, it appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts. To enhance clarity, specify the exact 'times' or trends you’re referencing. Alternatives like "up-to-date" or "informed about the latest trends" may be suitable depending on the context. Avoid using it for overly niche topics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

up-to-date

A direct synonym, emphasizing currency.

keeping up with the latest developments

Highlights the continuous effort to stay informed.

current with recent events

More descriptive, explicitly mentioning recent events.

well-informed

A general term for having a good level of information.

informed about the latest trends

Focuses on awareness of trends rather than all events.

knowledgeable about current affairs

Emphasizes knowledge of significant events.

aware of modern developments

Specifies awareness of advancements.

au courant

A more formal, French-derived term for being up-to-date.

in the loop

A more informal way of saying informed.

tuned in

An informal idiom suggesting attentiveness to current events.

FAQs

How can I use "abreast of the times" in a sentence?

You can use "abreast of the times" to describe someone or something that stays updated with current trends and developments. For instance, "The company needs to stay abreast of the times to remain competitive".

What's the difference between "up-to-date" and "abreast of the times"?

"Abreast of the times" is an idiomatic expression that suggests continuous effort to stay current, whereas "up-to-date" simply implies being current at a specific moment. The former has a nuance of actively following developments.

What are some alternatives to "abreast of the times"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "up-to-date", "current with recent events", or "informed about the latest trends".

Is "abreast of the times" formal or informal?

"Abreast of the times" has a neutral to slightly formal tone. It's appropriate for both professional and general contexts where you want to convey the importance of staying informed.