Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
is surmounting
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"is surmounting" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express the idea of overcoming or surpassing something, usually a difficulty or obstacle. For example: "The team was able to surmount the financial challenges they faced and are now thriving."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Encyclopedias
Wiki
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
2 human-written examples
Paradoxically, the loss of confidence in Boeing stock comes when analysts are beginning to think the company is surmounting the production problems caused by parts shortages, regulatory delays and inexperienced workers.
News & Media
Evidence is surmounting that DNA methylation can modify the binding affinity of transcription factors to DNA to fine-tune gene expression regulation.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
The memorial is 117 feet (36 metres) tall and is surmounted by a granite shaft.
Encyclopedias
It is surmounted by a relieving triangle decorated with relief plaques.
Encyclopedias
Two gilded infants support the clock, which is surmounted by a happy Cupid.
News & Media
A chair used for hair-styling is surmounted by Louis XVI frame & upholstery.
News & Media
The thoracic uncini of F. stellaris consist of a large rostrum, which is surmounted by several spines of the capitium.
The features (especially the forehead and chin) project forcefully, and the head is surmounted by a crestlike coiffure.
Encyclopedias
The cone is surmounted by a sunscreen, an immense metal structure that resembles a gull with outspread wings.
News & Media
The dome is surmounted by a harmika, which resembles the small railed enclosure found on the oldest Indian stupas.
Encyclopedias
The sea lily stalk is surmounted by a bulbous body with frondlike tentacles, and the animal resembles a plant.
Encyclopedias
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "is surmounting" when you want to emphasize the process of overcoming a significant obstacle or challenge, suggesting a gradual and persistent effort. Ensure the context clearly indicates the difficulty being addressed.
Common error
Avoid using "is surmounting" when a simpler term like "is overcoming" or "is handling" would suffice. "Is surmounting" is best reserved for situations where the challenge is substantial and requires considerable effort.
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "is surmounting" functions as a progressive verb phrase, indicating an ongoing action of overcoming or surpassing something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It often implies a continuous effort to deal with challenges, as illustrated in the examples provided.
Frequent in
News & Media
50%
Science
25%
Encyclopedias
25%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "is surmounting" is a grammatically sound verb phrase used to describe the process of overcoming a challenge or obstacle. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is appropriate for use in written English. While relatively infrequent, it appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica, often in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts. When writing, remember that more straightforward alternatives such as "is overcoming" may be better suited for less formal contexts. By understanding its nuances and contexts, you can effectively integrate "is surmounting" into your writing.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
is overcoming
Focuses more generally on conquering a difficulty.
is overcoming
Focuses on successfully dealing with a problem.
is conquering
Implies a more forceful and decisive victory.
is mastering
Suggests gaining complete control or understanding.
is surpassing
Implies exceeding expectations or limits.
is resolving
Indicates finding a solution to a problem.
is exceeding
Focuses on going beyond a specific limit or boundary.
is tackling
Emphasizes the act of confronting a challenge directly.
is prevailing over
Suggests winning against an opposing force.
is rising above
Implies overcoming something negative and achieving a higher state.
FAQs
How can I use "is surmounting" in a sentence?
Use "is surmounting" to describe a situation where someone or something is in the process of overcoming a significant obstacle. For example, "The company is surmounting the challenges of the economic downturn".
What are some alternatives to "is surmounting"?
You can use alternatives like "is overcoming", "is tackling", or "is conquering" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Is "is surmounting" formal or informal?
"Is surmounting" is generally considered a more formal expression, suitable for professional or academic writing. Simpler alternatives might be preferred in informal contexts.
What's the difference between "is surmounting" and "is overcoming"?
While both phrases describe dealing with difficulties, "is surmounting" often implies a more gradual and persistent effort to conquer a significant obstacle, whereas "is overcoming" can be used in a broader range of situations.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested