inching forward

USAGE SUMMARY

"inching forward" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a slow, steady progress toward a goal. For example, "We slowly inched forward as we climbed the mountain."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But some smaller efforts are inching forward.

The New York Times

A trickle of new releases could keep things inching forward.

The Economist

Proposals are inching forward for a seawater plant in Texas.

The New York Times

Another water-recycling project is inching forward near Perth, Australia.

The New York Times

Still, he said the investigation was inching forward.

The New York Times

We can only hope that the process keeps inching forward".

The New York Times

Inching forward, my first circuit was a lesson in slow and steady progress.

The New York Times

Mr Miliband was "somewhat encouraged" by Mr Cameron's move, saying  the Government was "gradually inching forward".

Independent

Once you do, you can take your time, inching forward like a glowworm.

The New Yorker

"We're still inching forward," said Representative Lawrence F. Cafero Jr. of Norwalk, the House minority leader.

The New York Times

Alexander von Humboldt and his three companions moved in single file, slowly inching forward.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "inching forward" when you want to emphasize the slow, often laborious, progress being made despite challenges. This phrase is particularly effective when the advancement is hard-won or barely noticeable.

Common error

Avoid using "inching forward" when the progress is actually significant or rapid. This phrase is best reserved for situations where advancement is slow and incremental; otherwise, it can diminish the perceived success.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inching forward" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the manner in which something is progressing. It indicates slow, gradual movement or advancement. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "inching forward" is a common and grammatically sound verb phrase used to describe slow, but steady progress. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It appears frequently in news and media, science, and formal business contexts, indicating a neutral register. When writing, it's best used to emphasize the gradual and sometimes laborious nature of advancement. Related phrases include "slowly progressing" and "gradually advancing", which offer similar nuances. While authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Economist frequently employ it, avoid using it when progress is rapid or significant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

making slow progress

A direct and simple alternative that underscores the lack of rapid advancement.

gradually advancing

Similar to 'slowly progressing', but suggests a more consistent and measured pace.

slowly progressing

Emphasizes the gradual nature of the advancement, highlighting the lack of speed.

moving incrementally

Highlights the small steps being taken, focusing on the fragmented nature of the progress.

making headway

Implies progress is being made despite obstacles, focusing on overcoming challenges.

edging forward

Implies a cautious and tentative movement, often used when space is limited or the situation is uncertain.

gaining ground slowly

Indicates a gradual improvement in position or advantage.

advancing bit by bit

Stresses the piecemeal nature of the progress, emphasizing the small contributions.

creeping ahead

Suggests a slow, almost imperceptible movement forward, often with a sense of stealth or caution.

proceeding deliberately

Highlights the careful and thoughtful nature of the advancement, focusing on intention rather than speed.

FAQs

How can I use "inching forward" in a sentence?

"Inching forward" can be used to describe slow but steady progress, such as "Despite the setbacks, the negotiations are "inching forward"".

What can I say instead of "inching forward"?

You can use alternatives like "slowly progressing", "gradually advancing", or "making slow progress" depending on the context.

Is "inching forward" formal or informal?

"Inching forward" is generally considered a neutral phrase suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it's more frequently found in news and media than in highly formal academic writing.

What's the difference between "inching forward" and "inching ahead"?

While both phrases suggest slow progress, "inching forward" implies a more general sense of advancement, whereas "inching ahead" suggests gaining a slight advantage over others.