been on the ascent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "been on the ascent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or trend that has been improving or increasing over time. Example: "The company's profits have been on the ascent for the past three quarters, indicating strong growth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But I can see the disappointment in people's eyes when I switch to fizzy water before heading for the door at a decent hour!" Ashton's star has been on the ascent for a couple of years now.

The Guardian - Film

But pedestrianism among advocates and urban planners in the new, young century has been on the ascent in global cities far and wide, with many pushing for more restrictions on cars in the interests of bipeds and cyclists.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"We're on the ascent," Mr. Matsui said.

The New York Times

His poll numbers in New Hampshire were on the ascent.

The New Yorker

His academic adviser was decamping to Chicago; her career was on the ascent in New York.

The New York Times

According to Vogue, her star is on the ascent in 2013.

The Guardian

Croydon born Bonkaz grew up at a time in which grime was on the ascent.

The Guardian - Music

After decades as an also-ran in the American whiskey market, Japanese whiskey is on the ascent.

The New York Times - Food

BEIJING — The word on the street these days, whether in Washington or Beijing, is that the United States is on the decline and China is on the ascent.

The New York Times

His star is on the ascent, but Elba's best days as a world-class mumbler are sadly long behind him.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

By then, feminism was on the ascent, and bell-bottoms paired with flouncy tops were replacing pink suits and pillbox hats.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "been on the ascent" to describe a gradual and sustained improvement, especially when referring to trends or trajectories over a period.

Common error

Avoid using "been on the ascent" for sudden or short-lived improvements. This phrase implies a sustained and consistent upward trend, not a momentary spike.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "been on the ascent" functions as a descriptive phrase indicating a state of continuous improvement or progress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it correctly conveys that something is gradually improving or rising.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "been on the ascent" effectively describes a gradual and sustained upward trend. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically sound and readily usable. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts to convey that something has steadily improved over time. While synonymous alternatives exist, it's important to consider the subtle nuances each offers. Use this phrase to imply consistency, and avoid it when referring to sudden or short-lived improvements. The relatively uncommon frequency suggests that users should not overuse it, but it can be suitable for many situations, so feel free to use it where appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

been rising

This alternative is more general, simply indicating an upward movement or increase.

been improving

This focuses on the positive change and betterment over time.

been progressing

This emphasizes the forward movement and advancement.

been advancing

Similar to progressing, but suggests a more strategic or deliberate movement forward.

been gaining momentum

This highlights the increasing speed and force of the progress.

been moving up

A simpler, more direct way to express upward mobility or improvement.

been climbing

Evokes the image of a steady and persistent upward climb.

been on the upswing

Indicates a turn from a negative trend to a positive one.

been flourishing

Suggests a vibrant and thriving state of growth and success.

been prospering

Focuses on the financial or material success that has been achieved.

FAQs

How can I use "been on the ascent" in a sentence?

You can use "been on the ascent" to describe a gradual and sustained improvement or upward trend. For example, "The company's profits have "been on the ascent" for the past few quarters."

What are some alternatives to "been on the ascent"?

Alternatives include "been rising", "been improving", or "been progressing", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "is on the ascent" or "are on the ascent"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "is on the ascent" for singular subjects (e.g., "His career is on the ascent") and "are on the ascent" for plural subjects (e.g., "Their fortunes are on the ascent").

What does "been on the ascent" imply about the trend?

"Been on the ascent" implies a gradual, sustained, and consistent upward trend over a period of time, rather than a sudden or temporary increase.