ever higher

USAGE SUMMARY

"ever higher" is correct and usable in written English.
It is generally used to indicate an increase, improvement, or level that continues to grow. For example, "Stephanie pushed herself ever higher to reach her goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

UNEMPLOYMENT is creeping ever higher.

The Economist

Stock prices marched ever higher.

The New York Times

Plants are compelled to pay ever higher wages.

The New York Times

The boldface treatment worked, helping to push prices ever higher.

The New York Times

Rides must be ever higher and faster and scarier.

The New York Times - Travel

The ice will not just grow ever higher, however.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

A closure is then employed that curtails the dependence on ever higher-order moments.

Bulletin of Mathematical Biology

Ever-higher processing speeds are required for efficient database management.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Venues charge, at times, ridiculous fees, but they, in turn, face ever-higher temporary licencing costs.

The Guardian - Money

Ever-higher conservation standards have, in fact, helped empty the high attic a bit.

The New York Times - Arts

Both times, television news helicopters circled, zooming in as each climber grabbed onto ever-higher rungs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ever higher" to describe a continuous increase or progression in a specific attribute, such as prices, temperatures, or goals. It adds emphasis to the ongoing nature of the change.

Common error

Avoid using "ever higher" when describing a one-time or static increase. The phrase implies a process, not a fixed state. For example, don't say "The building is ever higher" if it's already built; instead, use it when referring to its construction or future expansion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ever higher" functions as an adverbial modifier, typically describing the direction or extent of an action or state. It emphasizes a continuous upward progression. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ever higher" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that functions as an adverbial modifier. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively communicates continuous upward progression in various contexts, from rising prices to escalating expectations. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse writing styles, but it's crucial to remember that "ever higher" implies an ongoing process rather than a static state. When seeking alternative expressions, consider phrases like "continuously increasing" or "steadily rising" to convey similar meanings while varying your word choice. "Ever higher" is a versatile tool for emphasizing trends and developments that are constantly moving upward.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

continuously increasing

This alternative emphasizes the ongoing nature of the increase.

steadily ascending

This indicates a gradual and consistent rise.

persistently rising

This emphasizes the enduring nature of the upward trend.

progressively taller

This highlights the step-by-step advancement in height.

relentlessly growing

This underscores the persistent and unstoppable nature of the growth.

constantly escalating

This implies a rapid and potentially alarming increase.

incessantly soaring

This suggests an unceasing upward movement, often metaphorical.

ceaselessly climbing

This focuses on the continuous effort to ascend.

uninterruptedly mounting

This highlights the absence of any pauses in the increase.

perpetually elevating

This suggests a never-ending process of heightening or improvement.

FAQs

How can I use "ever higher" in a sentence?

Use "ever higher" to describe something that is continuously increasing or progressing. For example, "As demand grew, prices soared "ever higher"".

What are some alternatives to using "ever higher"?

Alternatives include "continuously increasing", "steadily rising", or "constantly escalating", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "higher and higher" instead of "ever higher"?

Both "higher and higher" and "ever higher" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Ever higher" often implies a more sustained or relentless increase, while "higher and higher" can describe a more general upward trend.

Can "ever higher" be used in contexts other than physical height?

Yes, "ever higher" can be used metaphorically to describe increases in abstract concepts such as prices, expectations, or standards. For instance, "Patients now have "ever higher" expectations of treatment".