building steam

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "building steam" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is gaining momentum or increasing in intensity, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The project is finally building steam, and we expect to see significant progress in the coming weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

"But we're building steam," Mr. Henckels said.

The New York Times

With his campaign building steam, his voting record has veered from the mainstream of Republican politics.

The New York Times

The possibility of building steam that carries from one contest to the next seems much in question.

The New York Times

The ensemble thrashed about, building steam, and finally everyone dropped out but the saxophones, braying in an argumentative tandem that finally converged in a pressurized unison.

The New York Times - Arts

Meanwhile General Electric, the US industrial giant, has confirmed it is in line to receive $1.9bn£1.5bnby) buildinging steam turbines and generators for the power plant.

The Guardian

Like a train reaching its destination on schedule, the golf game of Tiger Woods is building steam as next month's Masters approaches.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Budapest is a thriving European capital with millions of tourists visiting the city to explore its beautiful buildings, steam baths, the Danube river and nightlife.

Huffington Post

Tony Abbott has been a small hurricane, building up steam.

The Guardian

"And people have a sense that this recovery may finally start building some steam".

The New York Times

It's the white building with steam -- and usually a line of devotees -- stretching out its front.

The New York Times - Travel

No proper trunk-to-mouth greeting for the don?" Then I could sense the locomotive engine building up steam and Greg finally blew his lid.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "building steam" to describe gradual progress or increasing enthusiasm. For instance, "The marketing campaign is building steam, and we anticipate a surge in sales next quarter."

Common error

Avoid using "building steam" when describing sudden or immediate changes. The phrase is best suited for processes that gain momentum over time, not for instantaneous events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "building steam" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present participle phrase, often used to describe an ongoing process of development or intensification. Ludwig indicates that it is commonly used to denote increasing momentum.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

13%

Science & Research

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Travel

3%

Sports

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "building steam" is a common and correct idiom used to describe a process that is gradually gaining momentum or intensity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it's essential to use it when describing gradual, rather than sudden, changes. Alternatives like "gaining momentum" or "gathering pace" can be used for slight variations in meaning or to achieve a more formal tone. Therefore, understanding the nuances of "building steam" allows for more precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gaining momentum

Focuses on the increasing speed and force of a process or activity.

gathering pace

Emphasizes the acceleration and rhythm of progress.

picking up speed

Highlights the increasing velocity of an action or event.

gaining traction

Suggests that an idea or product is becoming more accepted and popular.

intensifying

Indicates an increase in strength or severity of a situation or feeling.

escalating

Implies a rapid and often alarming increase in intensity or seriousness.

ramping up

Focuses on the increasing production or activity levels.

gaining ground

Suggests progress and advancement in a competitive environment.

becoming established

Emphasizes the growing stability and recognition of something.

progressing steadily

Highlights the continuous and consistent advancement towards a goal.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as "building steam"?

When something is described as "building steam", it means it is "gaining momentum" or increasing in intensity. It suggests a gradual process of development and progress.

How can I use "building steam" in a sentence?

You can use "building steam" to describe anything that is gradually increasing in power, enthusiasm, or progress. For example, "The project is finally building steam, and we expect to see results soon."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "building steam"?

Some alternatives to "building steam" include "gaining momentum", "gathering pace", and "picking up speed". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "building steam" an appropriate phrase for formal writing?

Yes, "building steam" is generally appropriate for formal writing, especially in business or news contexts. However, consider alternatives like "gaining traction" if you want a more formal or technical tone.