getting smarter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "getting smarter" is correct and can be used in written English.
You could use the phrase to emphasize that someone or something is becoming increasingly intelligent. For example: "The AI system is getting smarter every day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

We're getting smarter, with smarter tools.

Huffington Post

SMARTPHONES are getting smarter.

The New York Times - Tech

tests — were getting smarter.

The New Yorker

Toys are getting smarter.

The Guardian - Tech

tests were getting smarter.

The New Yorker

'Boyo, you're getting smarter already!

The New York Times - Books

Europe's cities are getting smarter.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Uber is finally getting smart.

TechCrunch

CEO of Getting Smart.

Huffington Post

YOLO by getting smart.

WikiHow

Everyone gets smarter".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "getting smarter", ensure the context clearly indicates what is improving in intelligence or capability. For example, specify whether it's a person, a system, or a process that is "getting smarter".

Common error

Be specific about the area of improvement. Saying something is "getting smarter" without context can be confusing. Instead of "The system is getting smarter", clarify with "The system is getting smarter at predicting customer needs."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "getting smarter" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present continuous construction. It describes an ongoing process of increasing intelligence or capability. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The analysis reveals that "getting smarter" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe an ongoing process of increasing intelligence or capability. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's versatile across diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and technology. When using the phrase, clarity is key; specify what is improving and avoid vague applications. Alternative phrases like "becoming more intelligent" or "improving intellect" offer options for different writing styles. Remember that while generally neutral, "getting smarter" leans toward informal in everyday use and professional in more formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

becoming more intelligent

Focuses on the increase in intelligence as a process.

improving intellect

Highlights the development of intellectual capacity.

developing greater insight

Emphasizes gaining a deeper understanding.

enhancing cognitive abilities

Refers to the strengthening of mental processes.

sharpening one's mind

Uses a metaphorical expression for improving mental acuity.

augmenting understanding

Highlights the growth of comprehension.

growing in wisdom

Suggests an increase in practical and insightful knowledge.

becoming more astute

Implies the development of keen awareness and shrewdness.

honing skills

Focuses on refining specific abilities through practice.

advancing knowledge

Indicates progress in acquiring information and expertise.

FAQs

How can I use "getting smarter" in a sentence?

You can use "getting smarter" to describe an increase in intelligence or capability. For example, "AI algorithms are "getting smarter" every day" or "Consumers are "getting smarter" about their financial decisions".

What are some alternatives to "getting smarter"?

Alternatives to "getting smarter" include "becoming more intelligent", "improving intellect", or "developing greater insight", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "becoming smarter" or "getting smarter"?

Both "becoming smarter" and "getting smarter" are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. "Getting smarter" is slightly more informal and emphasizes the process of improvement, whereas "becoming smarter" sounds more formal.

In what contexts is "getting smarter" commonly used?

"Getting smarter" is frequently used in technology, education, and personal development contexts. It describes improvements in AI, student learning, and consumer awareness, among other applications.