as they proceed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as they proceed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something will happen or be done in the course of an ongoing process or action. Example: "The team will provide updates as they proceed with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The mosquito harbours the parasites as they proceed through stages of reproduction and maturation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They should be instructed to keep careful notes of their data and results as they proceed.

The New York Times

As they proceed, venture capitalists must ensure that they maintain the nimbleness they need in their fast-paced marketplace.

The New York Times

"Surgeons will not have to pay so much attention to visual cues as they proceed," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

The findings suggest that there are opportunities and vulnerabilities for both parties as they proceed into the final seven weeks of the campaign.

The New York Times

When mortgages go into default, L.P.S. provides banks servicing the loans with an automated system that monitors the cases as they proceed.

The New York Times

Moving to a grade point average would give that extra detail, showing students' average grade to two decimal points as they proceed through their degree.

The Guardian

As they proceed Katya remains motionless in the embroidered sheet she has tightly cocooned them in -- no sexy displays, imaginative foreplay or love talk permitted.

The New York Times - Books

"That means, secondly, that all parties represented in parliament should take part in a monitoring committee to oversee the negotiations as they proceed.

The Guardian

To be silent about their excesses as they proceed would be irresponsible; but to wish for their failure, let alone contribute to it, would be insane.

The New York Times

But indiscriminateness is not a terribly dramatic quality, and it's impossible to track the motivations of these characters as they proceed through a swap-meet evening.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as they proceed" to clearly indicate that steps or developments are unfolding in sequence or over time. This helps to establish a logical flow in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "as they proceed" in overly passive constructions. Ensure the subjects performing the action are clear and active to maintain a direct and engaging writing style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as they proceed" functions as a conjunction introducing a subordinate clause. It specifies the timing or circumstances under which another action or event takes place. As seen in the examples provided by Ludwig, the phrase commonly introduces further details in a narrative or description.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as they proceed" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the progression of events or actions. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and suitable for a range of contexts, from formal writing to casual conversation. Its frequency and varied applications across news, science, and business domains underscore its importance in clear and effective communication. When writing, ensure the subject is clear and the voice is active to make the most of this useful conjunction phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as they continue

This alternative emphasizes the ongoing nature of the action or process.

as they move forward

This alternative highlights the forward direction and progress of the action.

as they go along

This alternative provides a more informal and conversational way to express the idea of progressing or continuing.

as they carry on

This alternative implies a continuation of something that was already happening.

during their progression

This alternative specifically refers to the stage-by-stage movement of an action.

while they advance

This alternative stresses the idea of making progress and moving ahead.

through the course of their work

This alternative is best used in professional contexts to highlight the passage of time spent on work.

in the course of their actions

This alternative offers a more formal and descriptive way to convey the progression of actions.

as they press on

This alternative suggests a determined continuation despite possible obstacles.

in the process of

This alternative emphasizes that a task is underway, and the action is carried out as part of that task.

FAQs

How can I use "as they proceed" in a sentence?

Use "as they proceed" to describe actions or developments that occur during an ongoing process. For example, "The team will provide updates "as they proceed" with the investigation."

What are some alternatives to "as they proceed"?

Some alternatives include "as they continue", "as they move forward", or "as they go along". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "as they proceed" formal or informal?

"As they proceed" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives might be preferred in highly academic or professional writing.

How does "as they proceed" differ from "after they proceed"?

"As they proceed" implies that the actions are happening simultaneously or continuously, while "after they proceed" suggests that something happens only once they have completed the preceding action.