gaining currency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gaining currency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is becoming more accepted, popular, or widely recognized over time. Example: "The concept of remote work has been gaining currency in recent years, especially after the pandemic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The power nap, he said, is gaining currency.

The New York Times

Reasons to be cheerful A startlingly original idea has been gaining currency in recent weeks.

Independent

But the idea is gaining currency that Britain may be an intolerable obstacle to European unity.

The Economist

Euclid's ideas were gaining currency and the Arabic numbering system was spreading.

The Economist

A new form of online advertising, sometimes called keyword advertising or sponsored links, is gaining currency.

The New York Times

He added that "in this economic environment," the slogan is gaining currency once more.

The New York Times

These assertions are both dangerous and false, yet they're gaining currency.

The Guardian - Opinion

AS BRITAIN'S privatised nuclear energy generator teeters on the edge of bankruptcy, two ideas are gaining currency.

The Economist

It's an idea gaining currency around the country: virtual gambling as part of the antidote to local budget woes.

The New York Times

The boldest idea for reform now gaining currency is to abolish the tax advantage enjoyed by employer-based health cover.

The Economist

Already, the idea of another two-month extension is gaining currency, to the dread of Republican leaders.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gaining currency" to describe the increasing acceptance or adoption of ideas, practices, or terms. Ensure the context clearly indicates what is becoming more prevalent.

Common error

Avoid using "gaining currency" when the subject is already widely accepted or established. This phrase best describes something in the process of becoming more popular or recognized, not something already mainstream.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gaining currency" functions as a dynamic descriptor, indicating that something is in the process of becoming more widely accepted or popular. Ludwig confirms its validity and appropriate use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "gaining currency" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe the increasing acceptance or popularity of something. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically correct and appropriate for various formal and informal contexts. The phrase sees frequent usage in news and media, science and formal business documentation. When using "gaining currency", make sure the context clearly shows that what you're describing is actively becoming more accepted, not already established. Consider alternatives like "gaining traction" or "becoming widespread" for nuanced variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gaining traction

Highlights forward momentum and progress, particularly in attracting attention or support.

gaining ground

Uses a metaphorical spatial analogy to suggest progress and advancement in acceptance or popularity.

gaining acceptance

Focuses specifically on the increase in approval or agreement, rather than general recognition or popularity.

taking hold

Suggests a firm and secure establishment, implying a deeper entrenchment than simply gaining attention.

increasingly adopted

Focuses on the action of adoption or implementation, highlighting active use rather than passive recognition.

becoming prevalent

Indicates a rise in commonness or acceptance, shifting the focus from gaining to already being widespread.

finding favor

Emphasizes the positive reception or approval that something is receiving, rather than its general spread or recognition.

becoming widespread

Emphasizes the extent of diffusion or adoption, rather than the process of becoming known.

becoming established

Implies a stronger sense of permanence and integration than simply gaining traction.

on the rise

A more general phrase indicating an increase in popularity, influence, or importance.

FAQs

How can I use "gaining currency" in a sentence?

Use "gaining currency" to indicate that an idea, concept, or practice is becoming more widely accepted or prevalent. For example, "The idea of remote work is "gaining currency" due to its flexibility and cost-effectiveness".

What's a good alternative to "gaining currency"?

Alternatives to "gaining currency" include "gaining popularity", "gaining traction", or "becoming widespread", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "gaining currency" in formal writing?

Yes, "gaining currency" is suitable for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe the increasing acceptance or adoption of something, especially in business, academic, or news contexts.

What's the difference between "gaining currency" and "becoming mainstream"?

"Gaining currency" suggests something is in the process of becoming more accepted or prevalent, while "becoming mainstream" indicates it has already reached a widespread level of acceptance and integration into society or a particular field.