it's flying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it's flying" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is currently in the act of flying, whether it's a bird, an airplane, or any other object capable of flight. Example: "Look at that bird; it's flying so gracefully through the sky."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

This simplicity is the Karma's main draw: take it out of its case and it's flying a minute or two later.

TechCrunch

One minute it's driving along, minding its own business, the next it's flying, majestically, no doubt, in the air like so many flocks of seagulls.

TechCrunch

It settled that icky business with GeoHot, and now it's flying high on the sales of its PS3 and accessories.

TechCrunch

When the airflow blew in the reverse direction across the wing suggesting drafts that could upset flight the neurons were even more active, leading the researchers to hypothesize that the sensors tell the bat when it's flying in unusual winds, so it can adjust its flying technique.

Science Magazine

It's flying smooth".

The New York Times

It's flying in all directions".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

It's flown all over the world.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"This is the first time it's flown, but we're already getting to that biplane".

The New Yorker

It was miles out, but it's flown in.

BBC

"It feels like it's flown by so far".

Los Angeles Times

It was flying first class without having to go anywhere.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it's flying" to describe the literal act of something moving through the air, like a bird or an airplane. You can also use it metaphorically to describe something that is progressing or selling quickly.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "it's flying" can sound too casual for certain professional or academic settings. Consider a more formal alternative like "it is airborne" or "it is in flight" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it's flying" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of flight. It describes something in the process of moving through the air. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it's flying" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to describe something moving through the air or progressing rapidly. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's versatile, fitting into many scenarios, especially news, media, and informal settings. While not always appropriate for formal academic writing, its clear meaning and broad applicability make it a valuable addition to your vocabulary. Consider using alternatives like "it is airborne" or "it is in flight" for more formal situations. Avoid overuse in highly formal writing where a more descriptive and precise term could enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is soaring

This alternative emphasizes graceful, upward movement through the air.

it is airborne

This alternative is a more formal and technical way of saying something is in the air.

it is in flight

This alternative emphasizes the state of being actively engaged in flying.

it is gliding

This alternative emphasizes a smooth, effortless movement through the air.

it is ascending

This alternative emphasizes upward movement, suggesting a climb.

it is taking off

This alternative specifies the beginning of a flight.

it is aloft

This alternative is a more literary way of saying something is in the air, often used to create a poetic tone.

it is skyward bound

This alternative poetic, indicating a direction towards the sky

it is winging its way

This alternative suggests a journey through the air, often used metaphorically.

it is doing well

This alternative uses the idiom to describe something that is successful or progressing rapidly.

FAQs

How can I use "it's flying" in a sentence?

You can use "it's flying" literally, such as, "The kite "it's flying" high above the park" or metaphorically, like "The new product "it's flying" off the shelves!"

What's a more formal alternative to "it's flying"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "it is airborne" or "it is in flight". These options are suitable for technical or professional contexts.

Can "it's flying" be used in a figurative sense?

Yes, "it's flying" can be used figuratively to describe something that is rapidly progressing or very successful. For instance, "The company's profits "it's flying" high this quarter."

Is "it's flying" appropriate for academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "it's flying" may be too informal for strict academic writing. Depending on the field and tone, alternatives like "it is in motion" or a more descriptive phrase might be better suited.