it is approaching

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is approaching" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is getting closer in time or distance. Example: "As the deadline for the project is approaching, we need to finalize our plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is approaching its second anniversary with not even a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel.

Huffington Post

While its content is global, it is approaching distribution in a more localized manner.

Forbes

While it is approaching Earth, Barnard's Star will not make its closest approach to the Sun until around 11,700 AD, when it will approach to within some 3.8 light-years.

Wikipedia

We've been together for — it is approaching 5 years.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is approaching $6 billion in sales of golf clubs.

The New York Times - Sports

If there is one thing Liberians are not shy about, it is approaching strangers.

The New York Times - Travel

It is approaching twice what the prime minister is paid, for instance.

The Guardian - Business

It is approaching as close to a perfect storm as a prize fight can be.

Independent

Chubby may not look like a revolution, but it is approaching one.

The New York Times

It is approaching 2am when the cab pulls up at Hibiscus Lodge.

The Guardian - Music

Now it is approaching the glamour of Ballet Folklorico of Mexico.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is approaching" to describe events, deadlines, or physical objects getting closer in time or space. It works well in both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While acceptable, avoid using "it is approaching" excessively in very casual conversations. Simpler alternatives like "it's getting close" might sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is approaching" functions as a verb phrase within a clause, serving to describe the action of something drawing nearer in time, space, or state. As Ludwig AI confirms, this construction is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

16%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is approaching" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase that indicates something is drawing nearer. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across diverse contexts. While highly frequent in News & Media and Science, it maintains a neutral register suitable for varied applications. Consider using synonyms like "it is nearing" or "it is getting close" for subtle stylistic variations, and avoid overuse in extremely informal settings for a more natural tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is nearing

Replaces "approaching" with a synonym that suggests closeness.

it is coming closer

Emphasizes the movement and reduction of distance.

it is advancing

Emphasizes the forward movement and progress.

it is drawing near

More formal alternative to "approaching", emphasizing the gradual nature of coming closer.

it is becoming imminent

Emphasizes the urgency and inevitability of something's approach.

it is getting close

More informal and direct way of saying "it is approaching".

it is forthcoming

Formal and indicates something is about to happen or be provided.

it is on the horizon

Figurative language suggesting something is becoming imminent or visible.

it is in sight

Suggests that the end or goal is close and visible.

it is looming

Suggests something is approaching in a threatening or imposing manner.

FAQs

How can I use "it is approaching" in a sentence?

Use "it is approaching" to indicate that something is getting closer, whether in terms of time, distance, or condition. For example, "The deadline "it is approaching" quickly" or "As the storm "it is approaching", we should take precautions".

What can I say instead of "it is approaching"?

You can use alternatives like "it is nearing", "it is drawing near", or "it is getting close" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "it is approaching" and "it approaches"?

"It is approaching" uses the present continuous tense, indicating an ongoing process. "It approaches" uses the simple present tense, suggesting a general truth or habitual action. The former is used for something currently getting closer; the latter for something that generally comes near.

When is it better to use "it is approaching" over other alternatives?

"It is approaching" is a versatile choice suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Use it when you want to convey a sense of something progressively coming closer, without necessarily emphasizing urgency or threat, unlike "it is looming".