gradually moving forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gradually moving forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process of progress or development that occurs slowly over time. Example: "The project is gradually moving forward, and we expect to see significant results in the coming months."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

I believe the change has had a good effect, she is gradually moving forward to make things better in her life with the support of services, GP, etc.

BMC Psychiatry

Historically, care in private practice is single-physician based, thus a shift towards team-based approaches may be more difficult to implement in such an environment and the necessary adaption of private practice care is only gradually moving forward [ 19, 20].

BMC Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Now let's gradually move forward and build him up".

The New York Times - Sports

After firing at the word of command, each rank withdrew to the rear to reload under cover of the pikemen and gradually moved forward by successive volleys until its turn came again.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Recently, Serna-Candel et al. described three cluster headache (CH) patients whose typical CH attacks started with mild or moderate pain of dull or tightening character at the occipital region and gradually moved forward over 10 to 30 minutes, finally reached the ipsilateral orbital area, and the authors named this headache "ascending CH" [12].

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Covered by their machine-guns, but under heavy Turkish fire, they gradually moved forward on foot.

Wikipedia

Gunfire from the main ramparts soon drove them off but Lieutenant Colonel Leonard Jardine, commanding the 2nd Rifle Battalion, co-ordinated the movements of his companies, which gradually moved forward.

Wikipedia

We gradually move forwards, not backwards.

The Guardian

As the mining continued moving forward, the experimental areas gradually stabilized and the cracks began to close.

International Journal of Coal Science & Technology

"The country is moving forward, law and order are gradually being restored," he said.

The Guardian

But I gradually came to see that my life was moving forward, just not in a way that was apparent at a holiday dining table.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gradually moving forward" to describe situations where progress is being made, but at a slow and deliberate pace. This is particularly useful when discussing recovery, long-term projects, or systemic change.

Common error

Don't use "gradually moving forward" when the progress is actually rapid or immediate. This phrase implies a slow and steady pace, so ensure it aligns with the actual situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gradually moving forward" functions as a descriptive phrase, specifying the manner in which something is progressing. It combines an adverb of manner ("gradually") with a present participle phrase ("moving forward") to indicate a slow and continuous advancement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

30%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

6%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gradually moving forward" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that effectively conveys slow, but continuous, progress. Ludwig AI validates this. While not as common as other similar phrases, its usage spans various contexts, including news, science, and even encyclopedic entries. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the actual pace of progress to avoid misrepresentation. Consider alternatives like "slowly progressing" or "steadily advancing" to fine-tune the intended meaning. Finally, this phrase is appropriate for neutral or professional registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slowly progressing

Focuses on the slowness of the progress, similar to 'gradually'.

steadily advancing

Emphasizes the consistent nature of the advancement.

progressing incrementally

Highlights the step-by-step nature of the progress.

making steady headway

Implies overcoming obstacles while moving forward.

inching forward

Suggests very slow and cautious movement.

developing slowly

Focuses on the development aspect of moving forward.

evolving gradually

Highlights the evolutionary nature of the progress.

gaining ground incrementally

Implies a gain in position or advantage over time.

bit by bit advancement

Emphasizes small increments of progress.

stepwise progression

Highlights a progression occurring in distinct steps.

FAQs

How can I use "gradually moving forward" in a sentence?

You can use "gradually moving forward" to describe a slow but steady progression. For example, "The company is "gradually moving forward" with its new strategy, despite initial challenges."

What are some alternatives to "gradually moving forward"?

Alternatives include "slowly progressing", "steadily advancing", or "progressing incrementally". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "gradually moving forward" the same as "moving forward gradually"?

Yes, "gradually moving forward" and "moving forward gradually" are semantically equivalent. The difference is primarily stylistic, with the former emphasizing the gradual nature and the latter focusing on the action of moving forward.

When is it appropriate to use "gradually moving forward" over "rapidly advancing"?

"Gradually moving forward" is appropriate when progress is slow and consistent, whereas "rapidly advancing" should be used when progress is fast and significant. They describe different paces of progress.