getting left behind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "getting left behind" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone or something is not keeping up with others or is being excluded from progress or advancement. Example: "In the fast-paced world of technology, those who do not adapt quickly risk getting left behind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We were in danger of getting left behind," he added.

The Guardian - Sport

"These poverty numbers reflect a national challenge: the U.S. economy has shifted and too many people are getting left behind without the skills they need to compete and succeed," Samantha Levine, the mayor's deputy press secretary, said on Wednesday.

The New York Times

But important research is getting left behind, EPA and outside scientists say.

Science Magazine

"Conservation efforts aren't seeing the recovery they expected, and maybe that's because calves and pregnant females are getting left behind," Noren says.

Science Magazine

The 34-year-old was in trouble from the off, first getting left behind during the swim, before withdrawing from the race on the first lap of the run.

BBC

"The U.S. economy has shifted and too many people are getting left behind without the skills they need to compete and succeed," the spokesperson said.

Huffington Post

People are getting left behind left and right.

Huffington Post

Britain is getting left behind.

The Guardian - Opinion

Are traditional financial establishments getting left behind?

The Guardian

A board may start to worry they're getting left behind.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, those who are from less well-to-do households are getting left behind.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "getting left behind", consider the specific area in which someone is lagging, such as technology, education, or economic progress, to provide context and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "getting left behind" in contexts where simple lateness or delay is meant. The phrase implies a more significant disadvantage or exclusion from progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "getting left behind" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It often serves as the subject or object of a sentence or clause. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage, especially in contexts related to progress and competition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science & Research

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "getting left behind" effectively communicates the risk of falling behind or being excluded from progress. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various domains, especially in news and media, and science and research. When writing, ensure that you're referring to a context where significant disadvantage or exclusion is implied, to use this phrase appropriately. Consider related terms such as "falling behind" or "being outpaced", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

falling behind

This alternative focuses on the act of lagging or declining relative to others.

being left out

This alternative emphasizes the feeling of exclusion from a group or activity.

lagging behind

This alternative suggests a slower pace compared to others.

failing to keep up

This alternative focuses on the inability to maintain the same level of progress.

being outpaced

This alternative highlights being surpassed in progress or speed.

losing ground

This alternative suggests a decline in position or advantage.

missing out

This alternative emphasizes the loss of opportunity or benefit.

being overtaken

This alternative suggests being surpassed, often in a competitive context.

becoming obsolete

This alternative emphasizes the process of no longer being relevant or useful.

being marginalized

This alternative emphasizes the act of being pushed to the edge or periphery.

FAQs

How can I use "getting left behind" in a sentence?

You can use "getting left behind" to describe situations where individuals, groups, or even entire industries are failing to keep pace with advancements or changes. For instance, "Small businesses that don't adopt new technologies risk "getting left behind"".

What's a synonym for "getting left behind"?

Alternatives to "getting left behind" include "falling behind", "lagging behind", or "being outpaced". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "gets left behind" instead of "getting left behind"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have different meanings. "Gets left behind" is used when someone or something is left behind as a result of an action or event. "Getting left behind" describes a continuous process of falling behind, indicating a trend or ongoing situation.

What are some common areas where people worry about "getting left behind"?

People often worry about "getting left behind" in areas such as technology, education, career advancement, and social progress. The phrase generally refers to the failure to keep pace with new developments.