edge upwards

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "edge upwards" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a gradual increase or rise in something, such as prices or temperatures. For example: "The stock prices began to edge upwards after the announcement." Alternative expressions include "rise gradually" and "creep up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The cost of fixed rate mortgages has already started to edge upwards, so if you're thinking of remortgaging and want to fix monthly repayments, don't leave it too long.

Independent

As the average life expectancy across the developed world continues to edge upwards, there is a growing need to reassess what this means for our working lives.

Forbes

"Despite the continued interest in buying a property, figures continue to show that demand from would-be tenants remains firm and that rents are likely to continue to edge upwards over the next twelve months".

BBC

If the edge e j already received a number of single-child vertices, a new single-child vertex is inserted in the edge upwards of the already received; (3) [〈 e, d〉 has the children 〈 e1, d1〉 and 〈 e2, d2〉] f(e+) = d+; (4) [〈 e, d〉 has the single child 〈 e, d′〉].

BioMed Research International

Fold the bottom edge upwards to meet the horizontal center-line.

WikiHow

Thrust this edge upwards in a smooth fast motion, so the pancake flies up in front of you Step back (if needed) and catch the bottom edge of the pancake on the near side of the pan.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Crowds, which have been edging upwards, will inevitably plunge.

Independent

Unemployment in the euro area edged upwards to 8.9% in March, from 8.8% the month before.

The Economist

Progress has been painstakingly slow and erratic, but enrolment rates and learning levels are edging upwards.

Independent

Yet core inflation, which excludes the temporary effect of soaring oil prices, has only edged upwards rather than exploding.

The Economist

So, here are some predictions: Over the final weeks of the campaign, support for the Conservative party has edged upwards.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "edge upwards" when you want to emphasize a subtle and gradual increase, especially when the starting point is relatively stable. For example, "Interest rates are expected to edge upwards in the coming months."

Common error

While "edge upwards" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal reports or academic papers. Opt for stronger verbs like "increase", "rise", or "grow" when a more impactful tone is desired.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "edge upwards" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating a gradual increase or movement in a specific direction. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "edge upwards" is a grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe a slow and gradual increase. Ludwig AI confirms this, and its examples show the phrase appearing most frequently in news and media contexts. Related phrases include "gradually increase" and "slowly rise". When writing, use "edge upwards" to emphasize the subtlety of the increase. While acceptable in many contexts, consider stronger verbs in formal settings. This analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the phrase's usage and nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gradually increase

Focuses on the gradual nature of the increase, emphasizing the slow and steady change.

slowly rise

Highlights the slowness of the ascent or increase.

inch upward

Emphasizes the small increments of the upward movement.

creep up

Implies a stealthy or subtle increase that might not be immediately noticeable.

ascend incrementally

Stresses the step-by-step nature of the ascent.

make a slight climb

Highlights a minimal climb.

move up a notch

Signifies advancement by a small degree.

rise bit by bit

Emphasizes the progressive nature of increase

increase marginally

The increase is very small or insignificant.

climb steadily

Conveys a slow but continuous increase.

FAQs

How can I use "edge upwards" in a sentence?

You can use "edge upwards" to describe a gradual increase. For instance, "The price of goods began to "edge upwards" after the new policy was implemented."

What are some alternatives to "edge upwards"?

Some alternatives to "edge upwards" include "gradually increase", "slowly rise", or "creep up", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is more appropriate: "edge upwards" or "increase sharply"?

"Edge upwards" suggests a gradual and subtle increase, while "increase sharply" implies a rapid and significant rise. The better choice depends on the actual trend you are describing.

What's the difference between "edge upwards" and "rise"?

"Rise" is a general term for an upward movement. "Edge upwards" implies a more tentative or gradual increase than simply "rise".