is underway

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is underway" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when talking about something that has begun or when talking about a process that is in motion. For example: Construction on the new shopping center is underway.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Global warming is underway.

The Guardian - Opinion

The review is underway.

The New York Times

A manhunt is underway.

The New York Times

Another division is underway.

The Guardian

An investigation is underway.

Forbes

The evening is underway.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Play is underway.

The New York Times

Chinese class is underway.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Things are underway.

The New Yorker

We 're underway.

The New York Times

Filming was underway.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is underway" to clearly indicate that a process, project, or activity has commenced and is currently in progress. It's suitable for both formal and informal writing.

Common error

Avoid using "is underway" to describe static conditions or states. This phrase describes an action that has started and is in motion, not a permanent situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is underway" functions as a predicate adjective, indicating that a process or activity has commenced and is currently in progress. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is underway" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to express that something has begun and is currently in progress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and frequently used phrase across various domains, including news, academia, and science. While related phrases like "is in progress" and "is happening" can offer alternative phrasing, "is underway" maintains a neutral tone suitable for both formal and informal contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it refers to an action in motion and not a static condition. Considering the range of contexts and high frequency, mastering the use of "is underway" will be a useful asset for any writer.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is in progress

Replaces "underway" with a more literal synonym, focusing on the ongoing nature of the activity.

is in motion

Emphasizes the dynamic state of the activity, suggesting movement or progression.

is happening

Simplifies the phrase, suitable for less formal contexts, while retaining the core meaning of an event taking place.

is proceeding

Implies a structured or planned progression, often used in formal or official contexts.

has begun

Focuses on the commencement of the activity, rather than its current state.

is being conducted

Highlights the act of carrying out an activity, often used in the context of studies or investigations.

is taking place

Similar to "is happening", but often used for scheduled events or occurrences.

is being implemented

Specifically refers to the execution of a plan or policy.

is rolling out

Suggests a gradual or phased introduction of something, often used in technology or product launches.

is advancing

Emphasizes the forward movement or progress of the activity.

FAQs

How do I use "is underway" in a sentence?

The phrase "is underway" indicates that something has started and is currently in progress. For example, "The construction project "is underway"" means the construction has begun and is continuing.

What's a less formal way to say "is underway"?

In less formal contexts, you could use phrases like "is happening" or "is going on" to convey a similar meaning to "is underway".

Which is correct, "is underway" or "is under way"?

"Is underway" is generally preferred as a single-word adverb in modern usage, although "is under way" is also acceptable, especially in nautical contexts or when emphasizing the separate words.

What can I say instead of "is underway" to emphasize progress?

To highlight the forward movement, you can use "is advancing" or "is progressing" to show development in particular stages.