are in motion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are in motion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is currently moving or in the process of moving. Example: "The planets in our solar system are in motion around the sun."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"Lips are in motion.

The New Yorker

Balls are in motion.

The Guardian - Opinion

The wheels of progress are in motion.

Independent

The wheels are in motion.

The New York Times - Science

"Things are in motion," he said.

The New York Times

However, the wheels are in motion for things to change.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

History is in motion.

The New Yorker

The FORCE is in motion.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is in motion".

The Guardian - Business

And everyone and everything is in motion.

The New York Times - Arts

Now the school system's in motion".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are in motion" to describe processes, plans, or objects that have commenced and are actively progressing. This phrase effectively conveys a sense of dynamism and ongoing activity.

Common error

Avoid using "are in motion" to describe static or completed events. The phrase implies ongoing activity, so ensure the context reflects a continuing process rather than a finished state.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are in motion" primarily functions as a predicate, describing the state of a subject that is actively progressing or moving forward. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates a dynamic process rather than a static condition. Examples demonstrate its usage in various contexts, from describing plans to physical objects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

19%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

11%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are in motion" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe something that has begun and is currently progressing. As verified by Ludwig, it’s versatile, appearing in diverse contexts from news and media to academia and science. While generally neutral in register, it’s crucial to avoid using it in static or completed contexts. Alternatives such as "are progressing" or "are underway" can be used to add nuance. Overall, understanding its proper usage ensures clarity and accuracy in writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are moving

Focuses on the literal act of physical movement.

are in progress

States that something is currently happening or being done.

are progressing

Highlights forward movement and development towards a goal.

are underway

Emphasizes that something has already started and is in progress.

are set in motion

Highlights the fact that something has been started by an external influence.

are commencing

Focuses on the beginning or initiation of movement or activity.

are operating

Highlights the functional aspect of movement or activity.

are functioning

Similar to operating, but emphasizes the ability to perform a task.

are running

Implies a continuous and often fast-paced movement or operation.

are active

Indicates a state of being engaged in activity.

FAQs

What does "are in motion" mean?

The phrase "are in motion" signifies that something has begun and is currently progressing or active. It implies a dynamic state rather than a static one.

How can I use "are in motion" in a sentence?

You can use "are in motion" to describe various scenarios, such as "The wheels of progress "are in motion"" or "Plans "are underway"." The key is to ensure that the subject is actively progressing.

What are some alternatives to "are in motion"?

Alternatives include "are progressing", "are underway", or "are active", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "is in motion" instead of "are in motion"?

The verb form depends on the subject. Use "is in motion" for singular subjects (e.g., "The plan is in motion") and "are in motion" for plural subjects (e.g., "The plans are in motion").