gathering pace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gathering pace" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an activity or event that is becoming faster or more intense. For example: "The storm was gathering pace as the night drew in."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Britain's recovery is gathering pace (see article).

The Economist

Electric car technology, meanwhile is gathering pace.

The Guardian

But it has been gathering pace.

The Guardian - Opinion

The digital revolution is gathering pace.

The Guardian

It swells as it goes, gathering pace.

The Guardian - Books

Demand, though, has been gathering pace.

The Guardian - Travel

And the revolution is still gathering pace.

The Guardian

Initiatives are gathering pace throughout wild Africa.

The Guardian

The selloff in London is gathering pace!

The Guardian - Business

Renewables are gathering pace in India.

The Guardian

And it is still gathering pace.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gathering pace" to describe situations where progress or intensity is noticeably increasing over time. For example, "The investigation into the scandal is gathering pace, with new evidence emerging daily."

Common error

Avoid using "gathering pace" to describe static situations or events that are not in motion or showing increased intensity. For example, it would be incorrect to say, "The building's construction is gathering pace," if the construction has been consistently slow and shows no signs of acceleration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gathering pace" functions as a dynamic verb phrase, typically used to describe an ongoing process that is increasing in speed, intensity, or overall activity. Ludwig confirms that the expression is commonly used in various contexts to depict progressive advancement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gathering pace" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes an increase in speed, intensity, or momentum. As Ludwig AI states, it's perfectly acceptable in written English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, this phrase is suitable for both formal and informal communication. When using "gathering pace", ensure that it aligns with a situation that is actively progressing, becoming more pronounced over time. Alternatives like "gaining momentum" or "picking up speed" offer similar meanings but may convey slightly different nuances depending on the context. Remember, misuse can occur when applying it to static situations, therefore ensure that the subject is actually moving or intensifying to accurately describe the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gaining momentum

Focuses on the increasing force or impetus behind an action or event.

picking up speed

Emphasizes the increasing velocity of something.

accelerating

Highlights the increasing rate of change or progress.

gaining traction

Suggests that something is becoming more widely accepted or supported.

building up

Implies a gradual increase in intensity or quantity.

intensifying

Focuses on the increasing strength or severity of something.

ramping up

Indicates a deliberate increase in activity or production.

progressing rapidly

Highlights the quick advancement or development of something.

advancing swiftly

Emphasizes the fast forward movement of something.

escalating

Suggests a sharp and often concerning increase in intensity or scope.

FAQs

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

"Gathering pace" is used to describe something that is increasing in speed, intensity, or momentum. For example, "The economic recovery is "gathering pace"" means the recovery is becoming stronger.

What's an alternative to "gathering pace"?

Alternatives include "gaining momentum", "picking up speed", or "accelerating". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "gathering pace" in formal writing?

Yes, "gathering pace" is appropriate for formal writing. As Ludwig AI shows, it appears in reputable news sources like The Guardian and The New York Times, indicating its acceptance in professional and neutral contexts.

Which is the difference between "gathering pace" and "gaining momentum"?

While both suggest increasing intensity, "gathering pace" often refers more directly to speed or rate, whereas "gaining momentum" emphasizes the building of force or influence. For example, "The car was gathering pace" focuses on speed, while "The movement was gaining momentum" focuses on influence.