make any progress

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make any progress" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe when someone is achieving incremental advancements toward a goal. For example, "We have been trying to finish the project, but we have not been able to make any progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Mr Letta needs the goodwill of right and left if he is to make any progress.

The Economist

The bug has to do with progression, as in, many players, myself included, can't really make any progress at all.

Forbes

That's why he can't make any progress.

The New Yorker

"We didn't make any progress today".

The New York Times - Sports

"Cynicism and complaining don't help us make any progress".

The New York Times

"Before that, nobody could make any progress with biochemistry".

The New York Times

Scientists could study these indefinitely and not make any progress.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

While Labour has failed to make any progress in this respect since May, the coalition has slipped back.

The Guardian

"If we don't try, if we don't reach high, then we won't make any progress," Mr. Obama concluded.

The New York Times

It's rather surprising, in the circumstances, that Labour hasn't sought to make any progress towards reforming such an unpopular tax.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The situation in which we lived made it very difficult for me to make any progress," he recalled recently.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make any progress" to indicate incremental advancements towards a specific goal, particularly when the progress is uncertain or questioned.

Common error

Avoid using "make any progress" when referring to dramatic or sudden changes. It is more appropriate for gradual or incremental improvements, not for complete transformations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make any progress" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating an action or the potential for action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is both grammatically sound and commonly used. It often appears in contexts where the degree or existence of advancement is being questioned or assessed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

14%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make any progress" is a common and grammatically correct way to inquire about, doubt, or deny advancement. Ludwig AI affirms its validity and widespread use across diverse contexts. Its neutral register allows for flexible application, though it is most frequently encountered in news and media. When writing, remember that it is most effective for discussing incremental advancements rather than drastic changes. Consider using alternatives such as "move forward" or "make headway" to fine-tune your message depending on the specific context. Ultimately, this phrase offers a nuanced way to discuss the presence, absence, or uncertainty of improvement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make headway

Suggests overcoming difficulties and making noticeable progress.

move forward

Highlights the act of progressing from a starting point.

make strides

Highlights significant advancements or improvements.

advance

Expresses a general forward movement or improvement.

improve

Focuses on enhancing the quality or condition of something.

gain ground

Implies achieving a more advantageous position or making advancements against opposition.

develop

Suggests a gradual unfolding or expansion.

come along

Suggests a satisfactory development or progression.

get ahead

Indicates surpassing others or overcoming obstacles to achieve success.

achieve results

Focuses on attaining specific outcomes or accomplishments.

FAQs

How can I use "make any progress" in a sentence?

You can use "make any progress" to describe situations where advancement is being made, such as, "Despite their efforts, they didn't "make any headway" on the project."

What are some alternatives to "make any progress"?

Alternatives to "make any progress" include phrases like "move forward", "gain ground", or "make headway", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "made any progress" instead of "make any progress"?

Yes, "made any progress" is the past tense form and is grammatically correct when referring to progress that has already occurred. The choice depends on whether you are describing a past or present situation.

What's the difference between "make progress" and "make any progress"?

"Make progress" is a general statement about advancing, while "make any progress" implies a question or doubt about whether any advancement is occurring at all. The addition of "any" emphasizes the potential lack of progress.