make inroads into

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make inroads into" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when discussing a process where someone or something is making progress or achieving success in a specific area. For example: "John has been making inroads into the business world by pursuing several lucrative investments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Trump is not expected to make inroads into that lead.

The Guardian

However, these approaches have largely failed to make inroads into Pleistocene European hunter-gatherer archaeology.

L'Anthropologie

Microsoft is doing its best to make inroads into this captive market.

The Economist

Mr. Paul, however, has been trying to make inroads into that support.

The New York Times

At the same time, One2One is beginning to make inroads into the business market.

Independent

The government will make inroads into the country's high-tax environment, reducing the burden on companies.

The Economist

"Anglo-Saxon capitalism" was to make inroads into the more consensual culture of continental Europe.

The Economist

Delaware is trying to make inroads into the Middle East and South America, he says.

The New York Times

Google has struggled to make inroads into offices, where Microsoft software still rules.

The New York Times - Tech

So what will be the first tech innovation to make inroads into our daily lives?

The Guardian

The AWB were trying to make inroads into the English-speaking neighbourhoods of our town.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make inroads into", ensure that the context clearly indicates the area where progress is being made. For example, "The company is making inroads into the Asian market" is more effective than simply saying "The company is making inroads."

Common error

Avoid using "make inroads into" to describe trivial or insignificant progress. This phrase implies a substantial advancement or impact. Using it for minor achievements can diminish the perceived credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make inroads into" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of achieving initial success or progress in a particular area. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase follows standard grammar rules and is used to describe a process of advancement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make inroads into" is a grammatically sound and frequently used idiom for describing initial progress or success in a particular domain. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's applicable across varied contexts, ranging from news reporting to academic research and business communications. The phrase suggests that efforts are beginning to yield positive outcomes, which is a sign of promise in the areas of endeavor. While versatile, it's important to use this phrase thoughtfully, ensuring it aligns with the significance of the progress being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gain ground in

This alternative emphasizes gradual advancement and gaining a stronger position.

make headway in

Indicates overcoming obstacles and moving forward despite challenges.

make progress in

This is a more general alternative, focusing on advancement without specifying the scale.

establish a foothold in

Implies securing an initial, stable position from which to expand.

advance within

Focuses on movement forward inside a specific context or field.

gain influence over

Highlights the act of becoming more influential in regards to specific topic.

penetrate into

Suggests entering or permeating something, often implying initial entry.

expand presence in

Emphasizes the increase of visibility and activity within a particular domain.

achieve success in

Highlights the successful outcome of efforts in a particular area.

develop influence within

Focuses on increasing power or impact within a specific sphere.

FAQs

How can I use "make inroads into" in a sentence?

Use "make inroads into" to describe progress or advancement in a specific area. For example, "The new marketing strategy helped the company "make inroads into" a younger demographic."

What can I say instead of "make inroads into"?

You can use alternatives like "gain ground in", "make progress in", or "advance within" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "making inroads in" instead of "make inroads into"?

Yes, both phrases are grammatically correct. "Making inroads in" focuses on the ongoing process, while "make inroads into" refers to the general action or ability to make progress.

What's the difference between "make inroads into" and "make a dent in"?

"Make inroads into" suggests gradual progress and gaining a foothold, while "make a dent in" implies a noticeable but perhaps not substantial impact. The former emphasizes advancement, the latter, impact.