growing progressively

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "growing progressively" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or condition that is increasing or developing in a gradual manner over time. Example: "The company's profits have been growing progressively over the last few years, indicating a positive trend in their business strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

The attacks seem to be growing progressively more violent.

The New York Times

Are you aware that your writing is growing progressively darker?

The Guardian

(In his stage directions, O'Neill describes the mask as growing progressively larger in each succeeding scene).

The New Yorker

It has been growing progressively less potent over the last decade.

The New York Times

The report covered a two-month period when the government's economic indicators were growing progressively weaker.

The New York Times

Although cars shrank drastically after the oil shock of 1979, they have since been growing progressively bigger and heavier.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

But Lorenzo grew progressively sicker.

The New York Times

The news grew progressively worse.

The Guardian - Books

Geza's work grew progressively darker.

The New Yorker

The consequences of failure, meanwhile, grow progressively more serious.

The Guardian - Money

Her ankles had grown progressively inflamed since her miscarriage.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "growing progressively", ensure that the context clearly indicates a gradual change over time, rather than a sudden or abrupt shift. For instance, it fits well when describing trends, skill development, or the evolution of an idea.

Common error

Avoid using "growing progressively" to describe situations that change instantaneously or very rapidly. This phrase is more appropriate for processes that unfold over a noticeable duration, not for immediate events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "growing progressively" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action or state is changing over time. It indicates a gradual and continuous increase or development, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "growing progressively" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to describe a gradual increase or development over time. As confirmed by Ludwig, its usage spans various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias, indicating a generally neutral register. While synonyms like "increasing gradually" or "developing steadily" exist, "growing progressively" specifically emphasizes the continuous and ongoing nature of the change. When employing this phrase, it's important to ensure the context aligns with a gradual process rather than a sudden event. Ludwig's analysis and examples provide a solid foundation for understanding and effectively using this phrase in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increasing gradually

Focuses on the gradual nature of the increase, without necessarily implying continuous growth.

developing steadily

Emphasizes the consistent and unwavering pace of development.

gradually expanding

Highlights the expansion aspect of the growth, suitable when referring to physical size or scope.

steadily worsening

Indicates a consistent decline or deterioration over time, contrasting with positive growth.

increasing incrementally

Stresses small, distinct steps in the growth process.

evolving continuously

Highlights the ongoing and uninterrupted nature of the evolution.

unfolding gradually

Suggests a slow and deliberate revealing or development of events.

advancing steadily

Implies forward movement and consistent progress.

maturing slowly

Focuses on the process of reaching full development over an extended period.

escalating steadily

Emphasizes a gradual and continuous increase in intensity or severity.

FAQs

How can I use "growing progressively" in a sentence?

You can use "growing progressively" to describe a gradual increase or development over time. For example: "The company's profits were growing progressively each quarter." or "Her understanding of the subject was growing progressively with each lecture."

What are some alternatives to "growing progressively"?

Alternatives include "increasing gradually", "developing steadily", or "gradually expanding". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "growing progressively more worse"?

No, "growing progressively more worse" is redundant. You can simply say "growing progressively worse" or "becoming progressively worse". The word "worse" already implies a comparative state.

What's the difference between "growing progressively" and "suddenly increasing"?

"Growing progressively" implies a gradual change over time, whereas "suddenly increasing" indicates an immediate and rapid change. They are used in different contexts to describe different types of change.