it is in its infancy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is in its infancy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is still in the early stages of development or progress. Example: "The technology is promising, but it is in its infancy and requires further research and development."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The Science Research Council (SRC) was exempted, on the grounds that it is "largely concerned with pure, and to a lesser extent applied science, which is not synonymous with research", likewise the Social Science Research Council (SSRC), on the grounds (III.25) that "it is in its infancy".

Nature

Yet as an industry it is in its infancy when compared to printing or manufacture.

The Guardian

The Medicare program recently started a physician quality reporting initiative, but it is in its infancy and the information is not yet public.

The New York Times - Health

The internet has become such an ubiquitous part of our lives that we tend to forget that it is in its infancy.

The Guardian - Tech

Experts see a movement toward the use of mobile technology in education, though they say it is in its infancy as professors try to concoct useful applications.

The New York Times - Tech

The watchdog also criticises the UK's overall programme to stem the flow of refugees from Africa, saying it is in its infancy and that UK officials have yet to develop a strategy let alone practical plans on the ground.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

A It's in its infancy.

The New York Times

It was in its infancy then".

Independent

Does that concern Katzenberg? "It's in its infancy.

The Guardian - Film

The challenge is "to stop the methamphetamine market while it's in its infancy," Mr. Pietschmann said.

The New York Times

"It's in its infancy now" in criminal cases, Dr. Ross said.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, provide context about what is needed for further development. This offers a balanced perspective and encourages progress.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the future impact of something "it is in its infancy". While optimism is good, maintain a realistic outlook to avoid misleading your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is in its infancy" functions as a descriptive idiom. It indicates that something is in its early stages of development or existence. According to Ludwig, this phrase is usable in written English. The examples show its usage in various contexts, from technology to social sciences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is in its infancy" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe something in its early stages. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English. It's commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts, serving to temper expectations while acknowledging potential. When using this phrase, provide context and avoid overstating future impact. Alternatives such as "in its early stages" or "newly established" can be used for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in its early stages

Focuses on the temporal aspect of being at the beginning.

in its formative years

Highlights the development and shaping of something new.

at an early stage of development

More formal and emphasizes the process of development.

in its initial phase

Emphasizes the beginning period or stage.

newly established

Highlights the recent creation or setup of something.

just beginning

Simple and direct, indicating a recent start.

in a nascent state

More formal, referring to an emerging state of being.

in its developmental stage

Focuses on the ongoing process of growth and improvement.

still in the experimental phase

Highlights the exploratory nature of something new.

in the preliminary stages

Focuses on the preparatory steps or actions.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is in its infancy"?

Consider using phrases like "in its early stages", "newly established", or "in a nascent state" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "it is in its infancy"?

Yes, the phrase "it is in its infancy" is grammatically correct and widely used to describe something that is in the early stages of development.

What does "it is in its infancy" mean?

The phrase "it is in its infancy" means that something is new, undeveloped, or just beginning to grow or progress.

Can "it is in its infancy" be used for abstract concepts?

Yes, "it is in its infancy" can describe abstract concepts like social movements, scientific theories, or even personal relationships when they are in their early, formative stages.