has gained traction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has gained traction" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to a concept, idea, movement, or other notion gaining popularity or momentum. For example: "The vegan diet movement has gained traction in recent years, as more people look to reduce their carbon footprint."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

None of these alternatives has gained traction.

The New York Times

Since then the notion has gained traction.

The New York Times

Still, the argument has gained traction.

The Guardian

Opera has gained traction elsewhere in the Los Angeles area.

The New Yorker

But whether this plan has gained traction isn't clear.

MIT Technology Review

An increasingly visible movement in the U.S. to raise the minimum wage has gained traction recently.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The idea that shifting climate can influence civilizations has gained traction in recent years.

Columbia University

It's not just Iceland where the campaign has gained traction, though.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Still, the technology has gained traction in other parts of the world.

The New Yorker

But political wings of insurgent movements usually appear after the military arm has gained traction.

The New York Times

The legislation has gained traction in the House but faces significant obstacles in the Senate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "has gained traction" with specific details to enhance clarity. For example, instead of saying "The idea has gained traction", specify where it has gained traction: "The idea has gained traction among younger voters."

Common error

Avoid using "has gained traction" when the subject is already well-established or doesn't need to gain momentum. For instance, don't say "The sun has gained traction" because the sun's existence and importance are already universally recognized.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has gained traction" functions as a verb phrase, indicating that a particular idea, concept, or movement is becoming more widely accepted or popular. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes something increasing in influence or momentum.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "has gained traction" is a versatile and widely used expression to describe the increasing acceptance, popularity, or momentum of an idea, concept, or movement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts. It is most frequently found in news and media, academic, and scientific sources, indicating its neutral register. Alternatives such as "has become popular" or "has gained momentum" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances. When using this phrase, ensure that the subject is benefiting from this increased attention and that the context is appropriate, avoiding its use with already well-established concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has gained momentum

Highlights the increasing speed and force behind an idea or movement.

has become widespread

Focuses on the extent of adoption across a population or area.

has seen increasing acceptance

Highlights the growing approval and validation of something.

has found increasing support

Highlights the growing number of people who support the idea.

has become popular

Indicates a rise in popularity, focusing on widespread adoption.

has risen in prominence

Emphasizes an increase in importance and visibility.

has caught on

Emphasizes sudden and widespread adoption.

has taken hold

Implies a strong and lasting influence.

has achieved recognition

Focuses on being acknowledged or recognized by a specific group or the public.

has become established

Suggests a firmer, more secure position than simply gaining traction.

FAQs

How do I use "has gained traction" in a sentence?

Use "has gained traction" to indicate that an idea, concept, or movement is becoming more popular or accepted. For example, "The concept of remote work "has gained traction" in recent years."

What are some alternatives to saying "has gained traction"?

Alternatives include "has become popular", "has gained momentum", or "has taken hold", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "has gained a traction" instead of "has gained traction"?

No, the correct phrasing is "has gained traction" without the article "a". The term "traction" is used in a more abstract sense, referring to increasing acceptance or momentum, and does not require an article.

What's the difference between "has gained traction" and "has gained momentum"?

"Has gained traction" implies increasing acceptance or influence, while "has gained momentum" suggests an increase in speed or force. While similar, "traction" emphasizes adoption, and "momentum" emphasizes acceleration.