natural progression

USAGE SUMMARY

"natural progression" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the natural movement from one point to the next, usually through a logical or orderly process. For example, "The learning experience follows a natural progression from basic concepts to more advanced ideas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"That's the natural progression".

The New York Times - Sports

"It's a natural progression".

The New York Times

More likely, natural progression.

The New York Times

That's another natural progression.

The New York Times

It's the natural progression".

The Guardian - Tech

It's just a natural progression".

The New York Times

It is a natural progression.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's just the natural progression.

The New York Times - Sports

There was a natural progression".

The Guardian - Sport

Dehumanization has a natural progression.

The Washington Post

This is partly a natural progression.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "natural progression", ensure the context clearly establishes the starting and ending points of the process you are describing.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "natural progression" automatically leads to a positive outcome. It simply indicates a logical sequence, not a guarantee of success or improvement. The phrase only describes the order of events, not their inherent quality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "natural progression" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. Ludwig confirms its proper usage across varied contexts, denoting a logical sequence or gradual advancement as seen in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "natural progression" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that describes a logical or expected sequence of events or developments. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's versatile enough to be used in various contexts, from news and media to science and business, although it tends to lean towards a neutral or formal register. While the phrase suggests a smooth and logical development, it's important not to assume that it guarantees a positive outcome. Instead of "natural progression", alternatives such as "logical development" or "gradual unfolding" can be used to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

logical development

Emphasizes the reasoning and rationale behind the sequence of events.

gradual unfolding

Highlights the step-by-step and unhurried nature of the process.

steady advancement

Focuses on the continuous and consistent progress being made.

step-by-step process

Stresses the incremental and ordered nature of the development.

inevitable course

Suggests a predetermined and unavoidable path of events.

predictable sequence

Highlights the expected and foreseeable nature of the order.

organic growth

Implies a development that is self-driven and evolves naturally.

evolutionary path

Focuses on the long-term and adaptive nature of the development.

normal evolution

Highlights development through ordinary or typical means.

reasonable advancement

Suggests a fair or practical way to improve or proceed.

FAQs

How can I use "natural progression" in a sentence?

You can use "natural progression" to describe how something develops logically or predictably over time. For example, "Learning to read is a "natural progression" from understanding letters to forming words and then sentences."

What phrases can I use instead of "natural progression"?

Alternatives to "natural progression" include "logical development", "gradual unfolding", or "steady advancement" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a natural progression of events"?

Yes, "a natural progression of events" is grammatically correct. The phrase is used to describe a sequence of events that follow a logical or expected order. The inclusion of "of events" provides further clarification of what is progressing.

What's the difference between "natural progression" and "evolutionary path"?

"Natural progression" suggests a logical sequence of steps, whereas "evolutionary path" implies a longer-term process of adaptation and change. The former is more immediate, while the latter focuses on a broader, more transformative development.