advances slightly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "advances slightly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or gradual progress or movement in a particular context, such as in technology, research, or personal development. Example: "The project advances slightly each week, bringing us closer to our final goal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The Standard & Poor's 500-stock index advanced slightly, rising 4.94 points, or 0.4percentto to 1,300.80.

The New York Times

Prices advanced slightly in Amsterdam and Mil an, but eased in Zurich and Brussels.

The New York Times

By night, General Hifter's forces appeared to have advanced slightly on one front while falling back slightly on another.

The New York Times

Corn and soybean futures ended modestly lower while most wheat futures advanced slightly in subdued trading on the Chicago Board of Trade.

The New York Times

While Isis had managed to advance slightly in Hasaka on Friday, seizing one army position, heavy Syrian air force strikes hindered the attack, according to the Observatory.

The Guardian

Towards the end of the day, as police advanced slightly further into the site, officers were met with a hail of stones from some protesters.

The Guardian

In the central belt at least the party's vote advanced slightly more strongly on its 2007 local vote than the SNP's tally did.

The Guardian - Opinion

Stocks advanced slightly on Friday but failed to avert the worst week for markets since June, as investors turned their attention from the presidential election to the coming negotiations over impending tax increases and spending cuts.

The New York Times

Patent reform advanced slightly in the courts, with one ruling prohibiting patent trolls from "fee shifting".

TechCrunch

However I do feel our understanding of the universe was advanced slightly.

Huffington Post

In swarming motility assays, differences among strains were observed in rich medium while in minimal medium only ΔXacFhaB advanced slightly.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "advances slightly" to convey incremental progress or movement, especially when precision isn't critical. It's suitable for describing gradual changes in data, strategies, or physical positions.

Common error

Avoid using "advances slightly" when the progress is significant or substantial. This phrase is best reserved for minor changes; otherwise, it can undermine the impact of actual achievements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "advances slightly" functions as a verb phrase, modifying a noun or subject by indicating a minor degree of progression or movement. Ludwig examples show its usage in various contexts like market trends and military operations.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

7%

Social Media

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "advances slightly" is a grammatically sound way to express minor progress across various domains. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and usage in contexts ranging from news to scientific reports. While relatively infrequent, it serves a specific purpose in communicating subtle shifts, and it's important to avoid overstating progress when using it. Consider alternatives like "makes minor progress" if a more direct synonym is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

makes minor progress

Directly states that the progress is small.

progresses marginally

Focuses on the incremental nature of progress.

improves incrementally

Highlights the gradual improvement aspect.

moves forward a bit

Emphasizes the forward direction with a small amount.

develops gradually

Stresses the slow and steady development.

evolves slowly

Indicates a slow pace of evolution or change.

grows steadily

Highlights the consistent growth, even if minimal.

inches ahead

Uses a more visual metaphor for slow advancement.

steps forward gingerly

Emphasizes cautious and slight advancement.

proceeds modestly

Highlights the unassuming and limited progression.

FAQs

How can I use "advances slightly" in a sentence?

You can use "advances slightly" to describe a minor degree of progress or movement, for example: "The stock market "advanced slightly" despite initial concerns."

What are some alternatives to "advances slightly"?

Alternatives include phrases like "makes minor progress", "improves incrementally", or "moves forward a bit", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "advances slightly" in formal writing?

Yes, "advances slightly" is suitable for formal writing when you need to describe a minor or gradual advancement. However, consider the tone and context to ensure it aligns with the overall formality of the piece.

What's the difference between "advances slightly" and "advances significantly"?

"Advances slightly" indicates a small degree of progress, while "advances significantly" suggests a substantial improvement. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the extent of the advancement.