gain pace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gain pace" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or process that is accelerating or increasing in speed or intensity. Example: "As the project progressed, the team's efforts began to gain pace, leading to a successful completion ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Only after the Atlanta Olympics of 1996 did economic growth gain pace after the closing ceremony.

The Guardian - Business

But it is likely to gain pace, not least because new models and forms of financing start-ups are also being developed.

The Economist

That meeting occurred as a reinvigorated police inquiry began to gain pace with the arrest of senior News of the World journalists.

The New York Times

Reform is about to gain pace, with state enterprises winning more autonomy and steps towards the abolition of Cuba's system of dual currencies (see article).

The Economist

There is an expectation that the level of mergers and acquisitions will gain pace this year as the economy recovers and financing becomes easier.

The Guardian - Business

As Sam had predicted, the stats went big, with several thousand arriving within the hour, and the story continuing to gain pace as the afternoon went on.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Energy stocks led the market's broad gain, paced by refiners.

Forbes

Movement toward granting legal status to same-sex marriage has been gaining pace around the globe.

The New York Times

Germany are gaining pace and have improved markedly since Mario Gómez was brought into the starting XI.

The Guardian - Sport

But while all the re-release hype gains pace, one false comparison is repeatedly being made.

The Guardian - Music

A separate survey of the smaller services sector showed that activity gained pace in December.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gain pace" to describe a process or activity that is becoming faster or more intense over time. It often implies a gradual increase in momentum.

Common error

Avoid using "gain pace" when describing an instantaneous event. The phrase suggests a gradual increase in speed or intensity, not a sudden burst.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gain pace" functions as a dynamic verb phrase, indicating an ongoing process of acceleration or increasing momentum. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of the phrase being correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gain pace" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the gradual increase in speed, intensity, or momentum. While not exceedingly common, as noted by Ludwig, it finds its primary usage in news and media contexts, with secondary usage in formal business and encyclopedic writing. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability, making it a reliable choice for describing processes that gradually accelerate. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "pick up speed" or "gather momentum", ensuring the chosen phrase aligns with the context and intended meaning. Remember that "gain pace" is best suited for describing gradual increases, not sudden bursts of speed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Pick up speed

Emphasizes the increase in velocity or rate of movement.

Gather momentum

Focuses on the build-up of force or impetus.

Accelerate

Highlights the increase in the rate of change or progress.

Step up

Suggests an increase in effort or intensity.

Move faster

Directly indicates an increase in speed.

Gather steam

Implies an increase in power or energy, often after a slow start.

Build up

Focuses on accumulation or growth over time.

Make progress

Emphasizes forward movement toward a goal.

Advance rapidly

Highlights the speed and extent of the advancement.

Forge ahead

Suggests determined and rapid progress, often in the face of obstacles.

FAQs

How can I use "gain pace" in a sentence?

You can use "gain pace" to describe situations where progress or speed is increasing over time. For example: "The project began slowly, but soon started to "gain pace"."

What are some alternatives to "gain pace"?

Alternatives include "pick up speed", "gather momentum", or "accelerate". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "gaining pace"?

Yes, "gaining pace" is a correct and common usage, often used to describe something that is currently increasing in speed or intensity. For example: "The investigation is "gaining pace"."

What's the difference between "gain pace" and "increase speed"?

"Gain pace" often implies a more gradual and sustained increase, while "increase speed" can refer to a more immediate change. "The runner started to "gain pace"" suggests a gradual acceleration, whereas "increase speed" might refer to a specific adjustment made to run faster.