ladder

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ladder" is correct and usable in written English, depending on the context in which it is used.
You can use it when referring to a structure used for climbing up or down, or metaphorically to describe a hierarchy or progression in a career or other areas. Example: "He climbed the corporate ladder quickly, earning promotions within just a few years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

The Guardian - Money

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

People with disabilities and disfigurements have to work harder than non-disabled people to get their foot on the career ladder.

The Guardian

Judd said the players would unite behind interim coach Barker and attempt to fight their way up the AFL ladder.

The Guardian - Sport

"You have helped lay the ground for us to continue with these reforms in the years to come, helping more people onto the housing ladder with the security that home ownership brings".

The Guardian

As you rise up the financial ladder, the consequences of the financial crisis are increasingly arbitrary.

The Guardian - Opinion

Among the cheapest properties, for overseas students of more modest means, is a £275-a-week bedsit in Egerton Garden Mews, but it's so small tenants will have to climb a ladder to get to the "raised bed area".

The Guardian - Money

That can mean both those at the very top of the social ladder and those at the very bottom: in the populist imagination, elites work hand in hand with "global finance capitalism" but also pay too much attention (and money) to the poor who do not really belong to us and yet somehow live off us.

The Guardian - Opinion

They have climbed all the way up the ladder".

The Guardian

Higher up the political ladder the repercussions were even less evident.

The Guardian - Sport

Corruption and political upheaval heavily impacts education, making it responsible for numerous social and economic issues, which, in turn, prevents Honduras from climbing the statistical ladder.

The Guardian

From a Kurdish watchtower – reached via a metal ladder – a few civilian vehicles were visible in the far distance.

The Guardian

Some shacks are double-storied, with a ladder leading upwards.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ladder" metaphorically (e.g., career ladder, social ladder), ensure the context clearly implies progression, hierarchy, or advancement to avoid misinterpretation. Consider alternatives like "hierarchy" or "progression" if the specific image of steps is not essential.

Common error

Avoid using "ladder" when a more specific term like "steps" or "staircase" would be more appropriate for fixed structures. "Ladder" generally implies a portable or temporary climbing aid.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "ladder" is as a noun, referring to a physical structure used for climbing. It also functions metaphorically to describe hierarchical structures or processes of advancement, supported by Ludwig AI's analysis and examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "ladder" is primarily a noun with both literal and metaphorical applications. Literally, it refers to a physical structure for climbing. Metaphorically, it represents hierarchical progression, particularly in career and social contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. While broadly applicable, using a more specific term than "ladder" is recommended when the situation calls for it. Ludwig's examples show it is prevalent in News & Media, Formal & Business and Science. Alternatives include "hierarchy", "step-ladder", and "career path".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

step-ladder

Refers specifically to a portable, self-supporting ladder, often used for household tasks. It is less versatile than "ladder" in metaphorical contexts.

hierarchy

Implies a ranked system or structure, similar to the metaphorical use of "ladder" in describing social or professional advancement. It doesn't have the literal meaning of a physical ladder.

ranking system

Similar to "hierarchy", emphasizes the arrangement of elements based on their relative position or importance. It omits the physical connotations of "ladder".

career path

Focuses on the sequence of jobs or roles one undertakes in their professional life, akin to climbing a career "ladder". It excludes the literal definition of the word.

progression

Denotes a gradual movement or advancement, comparable to ascending a "ladder". It is a more general term, applicable in various contexts beyond careers or social standing.

route to success

Highlights a pathway or strategy leading to a desired outcome, similar to the metaphorical sense of a "ladder" leading to achievement. It's more focused on the end goal.

access

Emphasizes the opportunity or means to reach something, which can be represented by a "ladder". It's less about upward movement and more about entry or attainment.

way up

A more informal way to describe ascending a "ladder" in a social or professional context. It suggests a means of advancement or improvement.

scale

Implies a graded range or measure, somewhat related to the steps of a "ladder". It is typically used in measurement-related contexts instead of progression.

rise

Indicates an upward movement or increase, similar to climbing a "ladder", but lacks the structural or systematic implication.

FAQs

How can I use "ladder" in a sentence?

You can use "ladder" in sentences referring to a physical climbing aid, such as "He used a ladder to reach the roof". Or, you can use it metaphorically to describe advancement, as in "She climbed the corporate ladder quickly".

What's the difference between "ladder" and "staircase"?

"Ladder" refers to a portable climbing structure with rungs, while "staircase" is a permanent set of steps inside a building. A staircase is part of the building’s structure; a ladder is usually a separate piece of equipment.

What can I say instead of "climbing the ladder"?

Alternatives include "advancing in one's career", "progressing professionally", or "moving up the ranks". The choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "social ladder"?

Yes, "social ladder" is a common idiom referring to the hierarchical structure of society, where individuals or groups are ranked based on factors such as wealth, status, or influence.