making it this far

USAGE SUMMARY

"making it this far" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a journey or task that has been difficult or arduous, and which is near completion. For example: "We never thought we would make it this far, but here we are - only a few final steps away from achieving our goal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

The Rockets had no business even making it this far.

The Guardian - Sport

I thank God for making it this far.

The New York Times

The Azzurri have defied the odds and critics by making it this far.

The Guardian - Sport

For making it this far, they have each won at least $900,670, which they have already received.

The New York Times

For Pistorius, known as Blade Runner because of his carbon-fiber prosthetics, there was meaning simply in making it this far.

The New York Times - Sports

Schwinden, who is from Visalia, Calif., has essentially exceeded expectations for a 22nd-round pick by even making it this far.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

I'd made it this far.

The New Yorker

"We made it this far.

The New York Times - Sports

You made it this far.

The New York Times

I just made it this far.

Cornell University

"I've made it this far.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "making it this far" to acknowledge a hard-won achievement or unexpected progress in a situation where success was uncertain.

Common error

Avoid using "making it this far" in situations where success was highly probable or expected, as it can sound insincere or patronizing. This phrase is most effective when highlighting unexpected or difficult progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "making it this far" functions as an idiomatic expression used to express surprise, relief, or satisfaction at having overcome challenges to reach a particular stage or point in a process or journey. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is appropriate in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

8%

HuffPost

4%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Vice

2%

Forbes

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "making it this far" is a commonly used phrase to express a sense of accomplishment, relief, or gratitude for overcoming challenges to reach a certain point. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts but can also be used in more informal conversations. When using the phrase, consider if you want to instead convey the same message using phrases such as "getting to this point", or "achieving this milestone" for higher formality and to avoid overuse of this phrase in overly positive contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reaching this stage

Focuses on the accomplishment of arriving at the present point, omitting the sense of struggle.

getting to this point

Emphasizes the process of arrival, subtly downplaying the difficulty.

achieving this milestone

Highlights the accomplishment as a significant event.

progressing to this level

Stresses advancement and current position.

advancing this far

Highlights the forward motion, without necessarily implying completion.

coming so far

Focuses on the distance covered, but is less specific about the current position.

succeeding up to now

Emphasizes success over the entire journey.

enduring until now

Highlights perseverance through difficulties.

surviving until here

Emphasizes the struggle for survival.

arriving at this juncture

More formal, highlighting a critical point in time.

FAQs

How can I use "making it this far" in a sentence?

You can use "making it this far" to express surprise and satisfaction at reaching a significant milestone, especially after facing challenges. For example, "After all the obstacles, we're proud of "reaching this stage"".

What are some alternatives to "making it this far"?

Alternatives include "getting to this point", "achieving this milestone", or "advancing this far". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "making it this far"?

It's appropriate when acknowledging significant progress in the face of difficulty or uncertainty. It's particularly effective when expressing a sense of accomplishment and perhaps some surprise at the level of success achieved. It could be inappropriate if you have been planning something and have a positive and sure outcome.

Is "making it this far" formal or informal?

"Making it this far" is generally considered neutral to slightly informal. It can be used in news reports, blogs, and conversations. In a formal setting, consider alternatives like "progressing to this level" or "arriving at this juncture".