it was succeeding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was succeeding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or endeavor that was achieving success in the past. Example: "Despite the challenges, the project was succeeding beyond our expectations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

But the company's first-quarter performance also showed that it was succeeding in its strategy to persuade personal computer makers and end users to buy the larger and more costly business version of its Windows operating system, and to move increasingly into the lucrative market for corporate computing.

The New York Times

Microsoft gained from customers rushing to sign up for a new licensing program, but its performance also showed that it was succeeding in persuading personal computer makers and users to buy the larger and more costly business version of Windows.

The New York Times

The company would not reveal EE TV user numbers, or usage statistics, but said that it was succeeding in the strategic aim of making its broadband service more attractive to customers.

The Guardian

In many ways, it was succeeding as a self-sufficient community.

The New York Times

On the one hand, it was succeeding with an approach that was indebted to Ford's commercial acumen: Casablancas negotiated intense paydays for his girls, helping to usher in the era where one of his stars, Linda Evangelista, famously remarked that she wouldn't "get out of bed for less than $10,000".

The New York Times

Despite that Purnell's move is a blow to Brown because No 10 believed it was succeeding in isolating the cabinet-level rebellion after Hazel Blears, the ­communities secretary, quit on Wednesday in a badly timed move that alienated many party activists since it was taken only 48 hours before yesterday's elections.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"It was succeed or die," Mamet says.

The New Yorker

It was succeeded by the Olds.

The New York Times

Last year it was succeeded by The Frost Interview.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It was succeeded by the house of Bernadotte.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The city was the capital of Orissa province until it was succeeded by Bhubaneshwar in 1948.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was succeeding", consider whether a more specific verb (e.g., "thriving", "flourishing", "achieving") might provide a more vivid or precise description of the success.

Common error

Avoid using "it was succeeding" in contexts where a more active voice would be clearer and more impactful. For example, instead of "The company's new strategy meant that it was succeeding", consider "The company's new strategy ensured the company succeeded".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was succeeding" functions as a clause within a sentence, typically serving as the predicate. It asserts that a specific entity or endeavor was in the process of achieving a positive outcome or accomplishing its goals at a particular time in the past, as Ludwig AI shows.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

16%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

11%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was succeeding" is a grammatically sound construction used to indicate that something was achieving a positive outcome in the past. While identified as correct by Ludwig AI, its frequency is uncommon, appearing most often in News & Media and Encyclopedias sources. When employing this phrase, ensure the context is clear and consider whether a more specific verb might enhance the description of the success. Avoid overuse of passive voice to maintain clarity and impact. By being mindful of these nuances, you can effectively and accurately convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was prospering

Replaces "succeeding" with a synonym that suggests vigorous growth and flourishing.

it was thriving

Similar to prospering, but emphasizes robust and healthy development.

it was flourishing

Highlights a state of vigorous growth and abundance.

it was achieving its goals

More explicitly states the attainment of specific objectives.

it was bearing fruit

Uses a metaphor to suggest that efforts were producing positive results.

it was paying off

Indicates that the efforts invested were yielding benefits.

it was getting results

Focuses on the tangible outcomes produced.

it was victorious

Suggests a win or triumph over challenges.

it was proving effective

Emphasizes the efficacy and efficiency of the approach.

it was making headway

Indicates progress and forward movement, even if not complete success.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it was succeeding" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases such as "it was flourishing" or "it was achieving its goals", depending on the specific context.

What are some alternatives to "it was succeeding" in a business context?

In business writing, consider alternatives like "it was profitable", "it was gaining traction", or "it was yielding positive results" to convey success more precisely.

Is it always necessary to specify what "it" refers to when using "it was succeeding"?

While not always grammatically required, providing context for what "it" represents enhances clarity. Without context, the phrase can be vague. For example, "The project was well-managed, so "it was succeeding"" is improved by specifying: "The project was well-managed, so the initiative was succeeding".

How does "it was succeeding" differ from "it is succeeding"?

"It was succeeding" describes an ongoing success in the past, while "it is succeeding" indicates that success is happening in the present. The choice depends on whether the success is still ongoing or has concluded.