is gaining steam

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is gaining steam" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is becoming more popular, successful, or gaining momentum over time. Example: "The new marketing campaign is gaining steam, attracting more customers each week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But the issue is gaining steam.

The New York Times - Magazine

The political assault on this front is gaining steam.

The New York Times

American politics: Despite the surge in petty partisan politics in 2013, economic recovery is gaining steam.

The Economist

The idea of pro-social brands is gaining steam in every industry.

The Guardian

As the N.B.A. inches towards its All-Star break, the college game is gaining steam into March's tournaments.

The New Yorker

Yes, it's February, and the college search process is gaining steam as passive exploration morphs into active assessment and research.

The New York Times

This is where their attention must now turn, according to campaigners: and their argument is gaining steam.

The Guardian

Now its Lexus brand is gaining steam with a revamped product lineup, including sporty new variations of cars like its flagship LS sedan.

The New York Times

The southern secessionist movement is gaining steam, while the Houthis, a rebellious quasi-Shiite Muslim minority in the north, remain restless, although they joined the dialogue.

The New York Times

"The housing market is gaining steam, but many homeowners are still struggling," Mr. Lew said in a joint statement with Mr. Donovan.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Reuse efforts have also been gaining steam.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is gaining steam" to describe trends, movements, or ideas that are becoming more popular or influential. It's suitable for contexts where something is visibly gathering momentum.

Common error

Avoid using "is gaining steam" for something that has already reached its peak or is declining. The phrase implies an upward trajectory, not a plateau or downturn.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is gaining steam" functions as a verb phrase, indicating that something is increasing in momentum, popularity, or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is gaining steam" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that effectively conveys the idea of increasing momentum or popularity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to highlight trends and movements that are on the rise. While alternatives such as "is gaining traction" or "is gathering momentum" exist, "is gaining steam" remains a strong and readily understood expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is gaining traction

Focuses on the idea of something becoming more accepted or established.

is gathering momentum

Highlights the acceleration and build-up of energy or progress.

is picking up speed

Emphasizes the increasing rate of progress or development.

is on the rise

Indicates a general upward trend in popularity or success.

is becoming popular

Specifically refers to increasing popularity among people.

is taking off

Suggests a rapid and successful launch or increase in popularity.

is developing rapidly

Highlights the fast pace of development or growth.

is flourishing

Implies a thriving and successful period of growth.

is advancing

Focuses on the progressive movement and forward direction.

is escalating

Implies an increase in intensity or seriousness.

FAQs

How can I use "is gaining steam" in a sentence?

You can use "is gaining steam" to describe something that is becoming more popular, successful, or gaining momentum. For example, "The new environmental initiative "is gaining steam" in the community".

What are some alternatives to "is gaining steam"?

Alternatives include "is gaining traction", "is gathering momentum", or "is picking up speed". Each carries a slightly different nuance regarding the type of momentum.

Is it appropriate to use "is gaining steam" in formal writing?

Yes, "is gaining steam" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly in news and analytical contexts. However, consider alternatives like "is advancing" or "is developing rapidly" for a more subdued tone.

What's the difference between "is gaining steam" and "is losing steam"?

"Is gaining steam" indicates increasing momentum or popularity, while "is losing steam" suggests the opposite – a decrease in momentum or interest. Therefore, they have opposite meanings.