gain traction

USAGE SUMMARY

"gain traction" is a correct and usable phrase in written English, usually used to mean that an idea or movement is gaining momentum.
For example, "The proposal to reform the education system is beginning to gain traction among community members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Would the maxi gain traction?

The New York Times

But did he gain traction?

The Guardian

It folded after failing to gain traction.

The New York Times

The business began to gain traction.

The New York Times

But those attacks struggled to gain traction.

The New York Times

Mobile shopping continues to gain traction.

The New York Times

Why do rumors gain traction?

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Yet she gained traction.

Independent

The argument gained traction.

The New York Times

It never gains traction.

The New York Times

A "Beijing consensus" gained traction.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gain traction", consider the context carefully. Ensure it accurately reflects the idea of something progressing and becoming more accepted or successful. For instance, "The marketing campaign is starting to gain traction among younger demographics."

Common error

Avoid using "gain traction" to describe something that is already well-established or static. The phrase implies a dynamic process of growth and increasing acceptance. For instance, it's incorrect to say, "The law has gained traction for decades" as laws typically don't continuously gain traction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gain traction" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the process of something (an idea, a movement, a product) becoming more widely accepted, popular, or successful. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage. The examples on Ludwig show it in diverse contexts such as politics, business, and technology.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "gain traction" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that signifies something is becoming more popular, successful, or widely accepted. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across a multitude of contexts. Predominantly featured in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science domains, it conveys a sense of progress and increasing influence. For alternatives, consider "gain momentum", "pick up steam", or "gain ground". Remember to avoid using it in static contexts, ensuring that the subject is indeed in a process of growth. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition to any writer's repertoire.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gain momentum

Focuses on the increasing speed and force of progress, highlighting a dynamic aspect.

pick up steam

Similar to gaining momentum, emphasizing the build-up of energy and intensity.

gain ground

Suggests a gradual advance or increase in influence, often in a competitive context.

make headway

Implies overcoming obstacles and making noticeable progress.

catch on

Refers to becoming popular or widely accepted.

take hold

Indicates establishing a firm position or influence.

become established

Highlights the process of becoming recognized and accepted.

flourish

Suggests thriving and growing strongly, implying overall success.

gain acceptance

Emphasizes the process of being approved or endorsed by others.

become popular

Focuses specifically on increasing popularity and widespread appeal.

FAQs

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

You can use "gain traction" to describe an idea, movement, or product that is becoming more popular or successful. For example, "The new environmental policy is beginning to gain traction in the community."

What's a good alternative to "gain traction"?

Alternatives include "gain momentum", "pick up steam", or "gain ground". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say something "gained traction" or "has gained traction"?

Both "gained traction" and "has gained traction" are grammatically correct. "Gained traction" is past tense, while "has gained traction" is present perfect tense, indicating that something started gaining traction in the past and continues to do so.

What does it mean for something to "fail to gain traction"?

If something “fails to gain traction,” it means it does not become popular, successful, or widely accepted. It doesn't progress or attract sufficient support. This is different than saying it "gained traction".