catching on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "catching on" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone is beginning to understand or become aware of something. Example: "At first, the concept was confusing, but after a few explanations, she started catching on."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But now it is catching on elsewhere.

The Economist

Even so, it is catching on quickly.

The Economist

The idea is catching on overseas, too.

The New York Times

Are men's book clubs catching on?

The New Yorker

You're catching on!

BBC

You're catching on, Neil!

BBC

The idea is catching on with corporations.

Forbes

Why are they catching on now?

Forbes

How fast is it catching on?

Forbes

Funds are also catching on in Asia.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Remember the catching-on-fire hoverboard?

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "catching on" to describe the increasing popularity or acceptance of an idea, trend, or product. It suggests that something is gaining momentum and becoming more widely known or understood.

Common error

Avoid using "catching on" when you simply mean something is happening or occurring, without implying increasing popularity or understanding. For example, saying "The rain is catching on" is incorrect; use "The rain is starting" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "catching on" functions as an idiomatic expression, indicating the growing popularity or understanding of something. As Ludwig AI exemplifies, it's used in contexts ranging from social media trends to technological adoption.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "catching on" is a versatile idiomatic expression that signifies increasing popularity or understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. While suitable for neutral registers, it's important to use it accurately, avoiding the implication of mere occurrence without the nuance of growing acceptance. Consider alternatives like "gaining popularity" or "taking off" to fine-tune your message. By mastering the subtleties of "catching on", you can enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gaining popularity

Focuses on the increasing acceptance and adoption of something.

gaining traction

Suggests that something is making progress and becoming more established.

taking off

Implies a rapid and successful start or increase in popularity.

becoming widespread

Highlights the broad distribution and acceptance of something.

becoming fashionable

Emphasizes the trendiness or style aspect of something's adoption.

becoming accepted

Focuses on the approval and recognition of something by a group or society.

becoming recognized

Indicates that something is being acknowledged and appreciated.

sinking in

Highlights the gradual understanding or realization of something.

getting through

Specifically refers to someone understanding or grasping a concept.

registering

Implies that someone is consciously noticing or becoming aware of something.

FAQs

What does "catching on" mean?

The phrase "catching on" means that something is becoming popular or widely accepted. It can also mean that someone is starting to understand something.

What can I say instead of "catching on"?

You can use alternatives like "gaining popularity", "taking off", or "gaining traction" depending on the context.

How do I use "catching on" in a sentence?

You can use "catching on" to describe a trend that is becoming popular: "Sustainable living is finally catching on." You can also use it to indicate someone is beginning to understand something: "He's finally catching on to the new software."

What's the difference between "catching on" and "catching up"?

"Catching on" refers to something becoming popular or someone starting to understand something. "Catching up", on the other hand, means reaching the same level or standard as others, or becoming up-to-date with the latest news or information.