developing toward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "developing toward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process of growth or progression in a particular direction or goal. Example: "The project is developing toward a more sustainable model that benefits both the environment and the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

A senior aide to Jean-Louis Borloo, the minister of ecology, sustainable development and planning, said that France "sees a wide trend developing" toward more use of nuclear energy.

The New York Times

The darkening mood surrounding the Israelis marks a reversal of a more moderate attitude that had been developing toward Israel in an organization that has been traditionally hostile.

The New York Times

Most sleds are made of ash lashed together with leather or nylon, though a trend is developing toward the use of composite materials.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yet another trend is the change in energy available to the construction process, starting with human muscle power and developing toward the powerful machinery used today.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The world is increasingly developing toward complex and chaotic behaviour.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Ultrasonic time-of-flight meters are slowly developing toward these apparently conflicting but demanding criteria.

Pipeline Rules of Thumb Handbook Quick and accurate solutions to your everyday pipeline problems

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

At that point, the embryo kept in cold storage begins to develop toward joeyhood.

The New York Times - Science

A feeling of dissatisfaction also developed toward the existing governmental and missionary institutions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Over the last 20 years I've seen a supremacy attitude develop toward local blacks around here".

The New York Times

I've long been puzzled by the intense animosity many people developed toward Mrs. Clinton after she became first lady.

The New York Times

Another remarkable element is the movement, now fully developed, toward an integration of architecture and mosaic decoration.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "developing toward", ensure that the sentence clearly indicates what is developing and what it is developing toward. Clarity is key in conveying the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "developing toward" when describing a sudden or immediate change. This phrase is best suited for gradual processes. Instead of "The situation developed toward a crisis overnight", consider "The situation quickly escalated into a crisis".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "developing toward" functions as a prepositional phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier. According to Ludwig, it describes the direction or trajectory of a process or entity. Examples in Ludwig show its role in indicating trends and advancements.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

53%

News & Media

23%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "developing toward" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that indicates a gradual progression or evolution in a specific direction. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is suitable for describing trends, technological advancements, or the evolution of ideas in various contexts, particularly in science, news media, and encyclopedic writing. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in indicating what is developing and the intended direction. Alternatives such as "moving towards" or "progressing towards" can be used for similar meanings, but remember that "developing toward" is most effective for gradual processes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

progressing towards

Emphasizes continuous movement or advancement in a particular direction.

moving towards

Highlights the action of physically or conceptually approaching a destination or goal.

advancing towards

Suggests a forward movement, often implying improvement or increasing complexity.

evolving towards

Focuses on gradual change and transformation over time, leading to a specific state or outcome.

gravitating towards

Implies a natural inclination or attraction pulling something in a certain direction.

inclining towards

Indicates a tendency or predisposition to move in a particular direction or adopt a certain viewpoint.

trending towards

Highlights a pattern or direction of change that is becoming increasingly prevalent.

geared towards

Suggests that something is specifically designed or prepared to achieve a particular outcome.

oriented towards

Indicates that something is directed or focused on a specific goal or purpose.

aiming towards

Emphasizes the intention or goal of achieving a specific outcome or state.

FAQs

What does "developing toward" mean?

The phrase "developing toward" signifies a process of gradual change or progression in a specified direction. It suggests that something is evolving or advancing towards a particular outcome or state.

How can I use "developing toward" in a sentence?

Use "developing toward" to illustrate how something is changing over time with a specific end goal in mind. For instance, "The company's strategy is "geared toward" sustainable practices" demonstrates a deliberate movement toward a defined objective.

What are some alternatives to "developing toward"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "moving towards", "progressing towards", or "evolving towards". Each alternative emphasizes a slightly different aspect of the developmental process.

Is there a difference between "developing toward" and "developing into"?

"Developing toward" implies a direction or goal, while "developing into" suggests a complete transformation. For example, "The project is developing toward a solution" indicates progress, whereas "The tadpole developed into a frog" signifies a completed metamorphosis.