get pretty far

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get pretty far" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone has made significant progress or achieved a considerable distance in a task or journey. Example: "With hard work and determination, I believe we can get pretty far in this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

The other half of the menu can get pretty far out there, at least by Munich standards.

The New York Times - Food

If the oil companies put that much money into renewable investment, energy transmission and storage, we could get pretty far.

The Guardian

We froze it whole in Jim's freezer in Eagle, and it stayed there long enough to get pretty far up the mineral-hardness scale.

The New Yorker

Well, yes, and if the American or British governments decided to use these tools to crush all media criticism of government policy, they might be able to get pretty far.

The Economist

"You can get pretty far with a good attitude and a good work ethic," he said as he took a break to listen to a fellow member sing on a talent stage in the convention center atrium.

The New York Times

As a young liar, you can generally get pretty far on the assumption that adults have more important things to worry about than catching out a kid for every little fraud he tries to pull.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Even in buttoned-up America things get pretty far-out.

The New York Times - Arts

He got pretty far.

The Guardian - Music

I was getting pretty far out.

The New Yorker

He got pretty far into a novel once, but put it on hold.

The Washington Post

"We could have gotten pretty far behind then and we didn't," Belichick said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "get pretty far", ensure the context clearly indicates what progress is being made towards. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

While acceptable, avoid overusing "get pretty far" in formal writing. Opt for more precise and sophisticated alternatives like "achieve considerable success" or "make significant progress" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get pretty far" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the ability to achieve a considerable distance or make substantial progress. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in diverse contexts. The phrase often implies a positive outcome resulting from effort or circumstance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "get pretty far" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate significant progress or achievement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for neutral to informal contexts, predominantly appearing in news, media, and wiki sources. While versatile, more formal settings may benefit from alternatives like "make considerable progress" or "achieve substantial results". Understanding these nuances allows for more effective and context-appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make considerable progress

Focuses on the advancement made, emphasizing the extent of the progress.

advance significantly

Highlights the degree of advancement or improvement.

go a long way

Emphasizes the distance covered or the extent of achievement.

achieve substantial results

Focuses on the tangible outcomes and their significance.

progress substantially

Similar to "make considerable progress" but with a slightly different emphasis.

gain significant ground

Highlights the idea of gaining an advantage or improving one's position.

reach a significant milestone

Emphasizes the attainment of a notable point in a process or journey.

make great strides

Suggests rapid and noticeable progress.

move forward significantly

Focuses on the act of advancing and the extent of the movement.

attain considerable success

Emphasizes the achievement of a favorable outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "get pretty far" in a sentence?

You can use "get pretty far" to indicate significant progress or achievement in a task or journey. For example, "With dedication, you can "get pretty far" in your career".

What can I say instead of "get pretty far"?

You can use alternatives like "make considerable progress", "advance significantly", or "go a long way" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "get pretty far" in formal writing?

While "get pretty far" is generally acceptable, it's more suitable for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "achieve substantial results" or "attain considerable success".

What's the difference between "get pretty far" and "go far"?

"Get pretty far" implies a notable degree of progress, whereas "go far" can suggest either physical distance or success. The addition of "pretty" intensifies the sense of advancement in "get pretty far".