is in motion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is in motion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is currently moving or in the process of moving. Example: "The train is in motion, so please remain seated until it comes to a complete stop."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

You can tell on a map if your kid is "in motion" -- texting while driving.

Huffington Post

Motion lighting reduces screen brightness when the picture on the screen is in motion.

The Guardian

History is in motion.

The New Yorker

The FORCE is in motion.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is in motion".

The Guardian - Business

And everyone and everything is in motion.

The New York Times - Arts

"It's life itself; everything is in motion.

The Guardian - Music

But the thing is in motion".

The New York Times - Arts

Whether it's palatable or not, the recovery is in motion.

The Guardian - Opinion

Once the team is in motion, however, it floats free.

The New Yorker

She is in motion from the moment we meet her.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is in motion" to describe processes, objects, or ideas that are actively changing or moving. For example: "The project is in motion, and we expect results soon."

Common error

Avoid using "is in motion" to describe something that is static or unchanging. The phrase implies ongoing activity, so use it when the subject is actively moving or progressing, not simply existing in a state.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is in motion" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating that something is currently moving, progressing, or actively happening. Ludwig examples confirm its usage in various contexts, from physical objects to abstract ideas.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

24%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is in motion" is a versatile expression used to describe anything actively moving, progressing, or changing. Ludwig's analysis of numerous real-world examples confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general knowledge. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication. Remember to use "is in motion" when you want to emphasize ongoing activity and avoid it when describing static situations. As is moving and is underway represents some good alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is moving

Focuses specifically on physical movement, omitting the implication of progress or activity.

is underway

Emphasizes that something has started and is progressing, but doesn't necessarily imply physical movement.

is in progress

Similar to "is underway" but emphasizes that something isn't complete yet.

is progressing

Highlights the forward movement towards a goal or completion, without a physical motion component.

is advancing

Similar to progressing, suggesting movement forward, often in a conceptual sense.

is happening

Indicates an event is taking place, which may or may not involve actual movement.

is developing

Focuses on the gradual growth or evolution of something, rather than immediate motion.

is active

Suggests a state of being engaged or operative, which could imply either motion or function.

is operating

Implies that something is functioning, often mechanically or systematically, but not necessarily moving positionally.

is functioning

Indicates that something is working correctly, but it can be unrelated to physical movement.

FAQs

How can I use "is in motion" in a sentence?

You can use "is in motion" to describe something that is actively moving or progressing. For example, "The plan "is in motion" and we anticipate positive results soon."

What's a good alternative to "is in motion"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "is moving", "is underway", or "is progressing".

Is there a difference between "is in motion" and "is in progress"?

"Is in motion" often implies physical movement or active change, while "is in progress" suggests that something is underway but not necessarily moving physically. The subtle nuance depends on the context.

Can "is in motion" be used for abstract concepts?

Yes, "is in motion" can be used for abstract concepts, like a political movement or a social change. For example, "A significant shift in public opinion "is in motion"."