catching up fast

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "catching up fast" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is quickly reaching a similar level or position as another person or thing. Example: "Despite starting late, she is catching up fast with her classmates in terms of academic performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

China is catching up fast.

The Economist

Adults are catching up fast.

The Economist

RIM's catching up fast".

The New York Times - Style

But women are catching up fast.

The Economist

But its rivals are catching up fast.

The Economist

Older people are catching up fast.

The Economist

Other schools are catching up fast.

The Guardian

Other nations are catching up fast.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But Democrats and sympathetic advocacy groups are catching up fast.

The New York Times

But they're catching up — fast — and a few robot chefs have already appeared.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But some smaller Caribbean islands are catching up fast, irrespective of size or wealth.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "catching up fast" to illustrate situations where a person, group, or entity is making significant progress to reach or surpass a leader or benchmark.

Common error

While "catching up fast" is widely acceptable, avoid using it in highly formal or academic writing where more precise or technical language may be preferred. For example, in a scientific paper, consider using "demonstrating accelerated progress" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "catching up fast" functions primarily as a verb phrase accompanied by an adverb, modifying a verb to indicate the speed or intensity of catching up. It serves to describe the action of reducing a deficit or nearing a certain level or position, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "catching up fast" is a versatile and frequently used expression to describe the rapid closing of a gap or the swift approach to a leading position. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and widely employed, especially in news and media contexts. While it maintains a neutral register suitable for various communication styles, writers should consider more formal alternatives for highly academic or professional settings. Alternatives like "making rapid progress" or "swiftly leveling" can offer nuanced variations while maintaining clarity. The consistent usage and strong source authority affirm its reliability as an effective means of conveying progress and momentum.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

making rapid progress

Stresses the speed and significance of the advancement.

closing the gap quickly

Emphasizes reducing a distance or difference.

rapidly approaching

Focuses on the speed of nearing a target.

gaining ground swiftly

Highlights the act of advancing and improving position.

advancing at a rapid pace

Focuses on the fast speed of advancement.

accelerating progress

Emphasizes the increase in the rate of progress.

approaching swiftly

Focuses on the rapid speed of nearing a specific point or target.

quickly gaining parity

Highlights reaching a point of equality or equivalence quickly.

swiftly leveling

Implies a quick equalization or reaching the same level.

expeditiously closing in

Emphasizes the efficiency and speed of approaching a target.

FAQs

What does "catching up fast" mean?

The phrase "catching up fast" means quickly reaching a similar level or position as someone or something else. It implies that someone or something was initially behind but is now making rapid progress.

How can I use "catching up fast" in a sentence?

You can use "catching up fast" in a sentence to describe rapid progress. For example: "Despite starting late, she is "catching up fast" with her classmates."

What are some alternatives to "catching up fast"?

Some alternatives to "catching up fast" include "making rapid progress", "closing the gap quickly", or "gaining ground swiftly". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "catching up fast" in formal writing?

While "catching up fast" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "demonstrating accelerated progress" or "exhibiting rapid advancement" might be more suitable for academic or professional contexts.