it is gaining traction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is gaining traction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a concept, idea, or trend that is becoming more popular or widely accepted over time. Example: "The new marketing strategy is gaining traction among our target audience, leading to increased sales."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

It would be good to have a much wider discussion around the big-is-beautiful proposition, particularly if it is gaining traction at the Arts Council, and specifically how it might relate to theatre, which often has issues in relation to buildings and their geographical positions across the country.

The Guardian

Divestment might have started off as a fringe activity, but it is gaining traction – New York announced its intention to divest pension funds from fossil fuel in January, and in July, Ireland (my home) became the first nation in the world to make the same commitment.

Forbes

Lewes is known for its fishing charters and very active and entertaining Historical Society, but it is gaining traction in the culinary scene and yep, there are some incredibly quirky inns.

Huffington Post

Although telemedicine has been around for years, it is gaining traction as never before.

The New York Times

"But it is gaining traction as the public learns about it".

The New York Times

In the United States, President Obama is keeping the issue atop his domestic agenda, where it is gaining traction despite slim chances of Congressional approval.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

She added: "It's gaining traction all over the world.

The Guardian

It's gaining traction, and it's not falling back down".

The New York Times - Tech

"We feel it's gaining traction in the locker room," he added.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a last-ditch effort, and supporters say it's gaining traction.

The New York Times

The chief digital officer (CDO) is a new title in the C-suite, and it's gaining traction.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is gaining traction" when you want to emphasize that something is not only becoming popular but also making significant progress against resistance or inertia.

Common error

Avoid using "it is gaining traction" excessively in your writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "gaining momentum" or "becoming popular".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is gaining traction" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating that a subject is increasing in popularity or acceptance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is gaining traction" is a versatile phrase used to describe the increasing popularity or acceptance of an idea, trend, or product. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts. While commonly found in news and media, science, and formal business settings, it should be used judiciously to avoid repetition. Consider alternatives like "gaining momentum" or "becoming popular" for stylistic variation. This phrase effectively communicates that something is not just becoming known but is also making significant headway.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is gaining momentum

Replaces "traction" with "momentum", implying increasing speed and force.

it is becoming popular

Substitutes "gaining traction" with a more direct expression of popularity.

it is gaining ground

Uses "gaining ground" to suggest advancing and overcoming resistance.

it is catching on

Employs a more informal idiom to indicate growing acceptance.

it is on the rise

Indicates an upward trend in popularity or importance.

it is flourishing

Suggests a thriving and successful increase in prevalence.

it is taking hold

Implies that something is becoming firmly established.

it is developing

Indicates ongoing progress and growth.

it is picking up steam

Similar to gaining momentum, but with a stronger sense of building energy.

it is becoming established

Focuses on the process of becoming recognized and accepted.

FAQs

What does "it is gaining traction" mean?

The phrase "it is gaining traction" means something is becoming more popular or widely accepted. It implies that an idea, trend, or product is starting to attract attention and support.

What can I say instead of "it is gaining traction"?

You can use alternatives like "it is gaining momentum", "it is becoming popular", or "it is catching on" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "it is gaining traction" in formal writing?

Yes, "it is gaining traction" is suitable for formal writing, especially in business or news contexts. However, consider the specific tone of your piece and whether a more direct alternative might be more effective.

How to use "it is gaining traction" in a sentence?

You can use "it is gaining traction" to describe anything that is becoming more widely accepted or popular. For example, "The new marketing strategy "is gaining traction" among our target audience".