advancing a career

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "advancing a career" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing actions or strategies aimed at improving one's professional status or opportunities. Example: "She took several courses to enhance her skills, focusing on advancing her career in marketing."

✓ Grammatically correct

Formal & Business

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

They help when it comes to advancing a career, be it in business or in politics.

The Economist

Nor has it played New York regularly, a showcase that is generally considered essential to advancing a career in jazz.

The New York Times - Arts

Givers of career advice constantly remind ambitious professionals that networking is essential to advancing a career.

Science Magazine

Everyone in business is selling something – pitching a product; launching a company; convincing a client; supporting an idea; advancing a career.

Duke University

The word "politics" carries many meanings, but in science, if politics means forming collaborations and generally getting along with people, then it plays a valuable role in advancing a career.

Science Magazine

In terms of what types of obstacles women face when it comes to advancing a career in STEM arenas, DiGeronimo points specifically to issues around networking, finding career catalysts and having the courage to pursue potentially daunting opportunities.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

In the Internet age, a viral video can advance a career, even without radio play.

The New York Times - Arts

Start or advance a career as a web developer with the web technologies certificate at Harvard Extension School.

Harvard University

Learn how you can start or advance a career in student affairs and higher-education administration.

University of California, Berkeley

Beyond the pure pleasure the music brings, some executives say, there can be chances to advance a career.

The New York Times

No one graduates these days without a seminar on preparing to operate and advance a career in pragmatic, properly professional ways.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing strategies for professional growth, use "advancing a career" to emphasize forward movement and improvement in one's professional life.

Common error

Avoid using "advancing a career" when referring to simply maintaining a job; this phrase implies significant positive development and progress, not just stability. Ensure the context reflects actual growth, such as promotions, skill enhancements, or expanded responsibilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "advancing a career" functions as a verbal phrase describing the process of improving one's professional position. It often appears as part of a longer clause, indicating the purpose or result of specific actions. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "advancing a career" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the process of improving one's professional standing. As Ludwig highlights, the phrase is suitable for discussing actions and strategies aimed at career growth. It appears frequently in news, academic, and business contexts, suggesting a broad applicability across different registers. While alternatives like "furthering one's career" and "promoting a career" offer similar meanings, "advancing a career" specifically emphasizes forward movement and positive development. Ludwig confirms this phrase is appropriate for various professional contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

furthering one's career

Emphasizes the continuation and progression of a career path.

promoting a career

Focuses on actively supporting and elevating a career.

progressing in a career

Highlights the forward movement and development within a career.

developing a career

Stresses the gradual growth and enhancement of a career.

enhancing career prospects

Focuses on improving future career opportunities.

boosting career trajectory

Implies a significant upward shift in career path.

accelerating career growth

Highlights the speed and intensity of career advancement.

escalating professional status

Emphasizes the rise in professional rank or position.

improving career standing

Focuses on enhancing one's position and reputation in their field.

cultivating professional development

Highlights the nurturing and intentional growth of one's career.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "advancing a career" in a sentence?

You can use "advancing a career" to describe actions taken to improve one's professional standing, such as "She is taking online courses to focus on "enhancing her skills", and "advancing her career" in marketing".

What are some alternatives to "advancing a career"?

Alternatives include "furthering one's career", "promoting a career", or "progressing in a career", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "advance in a career" instead of "advancing a career"?

While "advance in a career" is grammatically correct, "advancing a career" is a more common and direct way to describe the process of making progress in one's professional life. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "advancing a career" and "having a career"?

"Advancing a career" implies active effort and progress, focusing on growth and improvement within a professional field. "Having a career" simply refers to possessing a long-term professional path, without necessarily implying advancement or upward mobility.