learning as we go

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "learning as we go" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process of gaining knowledge or skills gradually while actively engaging in an activity or project. Example: "We are implementing this new software system, and we will be learning as we go to adapt to any challenges that arise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

We are learning as we go.

The Guardian - Tech

We're learning as we go along.

The New York Times - Health

"We're learning as we go," he said.

The New York Times

And we're all learning as we go.

The New York Times

"It's controversial because we're still learning as we go along".

The New York Times - Health

"We're learning as we go through this process," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

We were instinctive parents, learning as we went.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We started working on vertebrates about 4 years ago not knowing anything about animal physiology, and we just started learning as we went along".

Science Magazine

"Back in the '60s, all of these programs were in their infancy, so we were learning as we went," she said.

University of Chicago

We worked and worked at the analysis; nowadays, we don't analyze data for somatic mutations in the same manner we did that first time, but we were learning as we went along.

DMM Disease Models and Mechanisms

But we learn as we go.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a project or initiative where the path forward is not entirely clear, use "learning as we go" to manage expectations and emphasize the importance of ongoing feedback and improvement.

Common error

Avoid using "learning as we go" as an excuse for inadequate preparation or research. While the phrase acknowledges the need for adaptation, it should not imply a complete absence of planning. Instead, frame it as a strategy for continuous improvement within a structured approach.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "learning as we go" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation where knowledge or skills are acquired during the execution of a task. Ludwig AI confirms it's a common way to express adaptation during a project.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Formal & Business

13%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Science

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "learning as we go" is a common idiom used to describe acquiring knowledge or skills during the execution of a task or project. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It conveys transparency, adaptability, and a willingness to adjust plans based on new information. While frequently used in news and media, business, and academic contexts, it's important to avoid using it as an excuse for a lack of planning. Instead, it should represent a strategy for continuous improvement within a structured approach. Related phrases include "learning on the fly" and "adapting as we proceed". This phrase is best used to manage expectations and highlight the importance of ongoing feedback and improvement, but never as a replacement for basic planning, in which case, "making it up as we go" would be a better option, though less advisable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

learning on the fly

Emphasizes quick adaptation and immediate learning.

adapting as we proceed

Highlights the process of adjusting to changes as the task progresses.

gaining experience in real time

Focuses on acquiring practical knowledge as events unfold.

improvising as necessary

Suggests a spontaneous approach to problem-solving during the activity.

developing expertise along the way

Highlights the growth of skills and knowledge during the process.

picking it up as we advance

Suggests a casual and effortless manner of learning while moving forward.

acquiring knowledge as we move forward

Emphasizes the gradual accumulation of information as the project progresses.

adjusting to the situation as it unfolds

Focuses on the reactive aspect of modifying actions based on the current state.

learning through experience

Underlines the importance of hands-on involvement in acquiring knowledge.

trial and error learning

Stresses iterative experimentation and knowledge acquisition through mistakes.

FAQs

How can I use "learning as we go" in a sentence?

You can use "learning as we go" to describe a process where knowledge and skills are acquired during the execution of a task or project. For example, "We don't have all the answers yet, but we're "learning as we go" and adapting our strategy as needed."

What does "learning as we go" imply about the planning process?

"Learning as we go" suggests that while there may be an initial plan, it is flexible and subject to change based on new information or experiences gained during the process. It acknowledges that not everything can be foreseen and that adaptation is necessary.

Which is a more formal way to say "learning as we go"?

A more formal alternative to "learning as we go" would be "gaining insights as we progress" or "acquiring knowledge iteratively". These phrases convey a similar meaning but are suitable for professional or academic contexts.

What's the difference between ""learning as we go"" and "making it up as we go"?

"Learning as we go" implies a process of gaining knowledge and adapting based on experience, while "making it up as we go" suggests a more improvised and potentially haphazard approach with little or no prior planning.