it gained traction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it gained traction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where an idea, trend, or movement is becoming more popular or widely accepted. Example: "The new marketing strategy was initially met with skepticism, but over time, it gained traction among consumers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Released as a browser game in February 2013, it gained traction very quickly.

The Guardian - Tech

It gained traction with the introduction of the iPod, hence the name.

The New York Times

It gained traction because Mr Thaksin seemed to regard an electoral mandate as a licence to do as he pleased.

The Economist

While the idea has long been discussed at the agency, it gained traction after the Knight debacle.

The New York Times

It gained traction quickly and drew a lot of attention to some of the family's recent activism.

The Washington Post

As it gained traction, Brown said, the effort drew support from the San Francisco-based Electronic Frontier Foundation, the American Civil Liberties Union and the National Lawyers Guild.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

It's still a hell of a lot cheaper than paying for university, but I think Course Hero should reduce its rates to help it gain traction.

TechCrunch

A cheaper iPhone could help it gain traction in China, depending on its cost.

The New York Times - Tech

But as it gains traction, it isn't Google that should be worried.

The Washington Post

There are only limited ways to quell sleazy rumor-mongering when it gains traction.

The New York Times

But if it gains traction, Google's plan could undermine not only Windows but also Microsoft's other multibillion-dollar franchise, Office.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it gained traction" when describing the increasing acceptance or popularity of an idea, product, or movement. Ensure the subject "it" is clearly defined and relevant to the context.

Common error

Avoid using "it gained traction" without a clear reference for "it". Ensure the reader knows what "it" refers to in the sentence to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it gained traction" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the increasing acceptance, popularity, or momentum of a subject. As Ludwig AI suggests, it describes situations where something is becoming more widely adopted or recognized.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it gained traction" is a versatile expression used to describe the increasing popularity or acceptance of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. While suitable for both formal and informal communication, its neutral tone makes it widely applicable. When using this phrase, ensure the subject "it" is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "it became popular" or "it caught on" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it became popular

Focuses on the increase in widespread liking or acceptance.

it caught on

Emphasizes the spread of an idea or trend to a larger audience.

it picked up steam

Highlights the increasing momentum or energy behind something.

it gathered momentum

Similar to "picked up steam", but suggests a more gradual increase in force.

it became established

Indicates that something has become recognized or accepted.

it took hold

Suggests that something has become firmly established or influential.

it flourished

Implies that something has grown and developed successfully.

it prospered

Focuses on the successful development and advancement of something.

it accelerated

Highlights the increasing speed or rate of progress.

it advanced

Indicates forward movement or progress.

FAQs

What does "it gained traction" mean?

"It gained traction" means something became more popular or started to be accepted by more people.

How can I use "it gained traction" in a sentence?

You can say "The new marketing strategy "gained traction" after the first quarter" to indicate that the strategy became successful.

What are some alternatives to "it gained traction"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it became popular", "it caught on", or "it picked up steam".

Is "it gained traction" formal or informal?

"It gained traction" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal settings might prefer "it gained acceptance".