is lagging behind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is lagging behind" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to describe someone or something that is not keeping pace with others, and implies that the person or thing is falling behind in a competition or in terms of progress. For example: "The team's progress on the project is lagging behind our competitors'.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"India is lagging behind," he said.

Science Magazine

Even so, it is lagging behind others.

The Economist

But the legal system is lagging behind.

The Economist

He is lagging behind in the polls.

The New York Times

"The country's judicial system is lagging behind real life.

The Economist

But the politicians' perception is lagging behind the facts.

The Economist

Washington is lagging behind the country on this.

The New York Times

London, a world leader in music, is lagging behind".

The Guardian - Music

According to polls, Tolhurst is lagging behind Reckless.

The Guardian

But climate groups fear Australia is lagging behind other countries.

The Guardian

Could it be that the developer scene is lagging behind?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is lagging behind", clearly specify what the subject is lagging behind in. This provides context and avoids ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "The project is lagging behind", say "The project is lagging behind schedule".

Common error

While "is lagging behind" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in very informal settings. In casual conversation, consider more colloquial alternatives like "falling behind" or "not keeping up".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is lagging behind" functions as a verb phrase in the present continuous tense. It indicates an ongoing state of not keeping pace or progressing slower than expected. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples illustrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is lagging behind" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe something that is not progressing at the expected rate. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions to highlight a deficiency or lack of progress. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, suggesting a neutral to professional register. Consider using alternatives such as "is falling behind" or "is not keeping up" depending on the specific context. When using "is lagging behind", ensure clarity by specifying what the subject is lagging behind in to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is falling behind

This alternative is a direct synonym, emphasizing the action of losing ground or position.

is trailing behind

This phrase suggests a more passive form of lagging, implying that something is following at a distance.

is not keeping up

This alternative directly states the failure to maintain the same level or pace.

is losing ground

This implies a loss of advantage or progress compared to others.

is losing pace

Focuses specifically on the speed or rate of progress being slower.

is being outstripped

This suggests that something is being surpassed or exceeded by something else.

is being overtaken

This implies that something is actively being passed by something else.

is in arrears

This alternative suggests being behind in payments or obligations, broadening the context slightly.

is deficient

This alternative suggests a lack or shortage in a particular area.

is substandard

This indicates that something is below the required or expected level of quality.

FAQs

What does "is lagging behind" mean?

The phrase "is lagging behind" means someone or something is progressing slower than others or failing to meet a required standard or schedule.

How to use "is lagging behind" in a sentence?

You can use "is lagging behind" to describe a variety of situations. For example: "The company's sales are lagging behind projections" or "His skills are lagging behind those of his peers."

What can I say instead of "is lagging behind"?

You can use alternatives like "is falling behind", "is trailing behind", or "is not keeping up" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "is lagging behind" or "is lagged behind"?

"Is lagging behind" is the correct present continuous tense. "Is lagged behind" is not a standard construction and is generally incorrect. Use "is lagging behind" to indicate a current state of being behind.