nudging forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "nudging forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gentle push or encouragement to progress or advance in a particular direction or task. Example: "The team has been nudging forward on the project, making small but steady improvements each week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Prof Jay Wanna, an expert in Australian politics and public policy, said parties are "nudging forward" the allowable process in order to gather more data on local voters.

The Guardian

But the judgment also denies the ex-dictator the chance to clear his name and means that, even if his health allows, he cannot return to Chile's Senate, in which he had awarded himself a seat for life.Despite its anti-climactic denouement, the Pinochet case has changed Chile, nudging forward a still-incomplete transition to democracy and breathing a new zeal for human rights into the judiciary.

The Economist

The engagers seem to be nudging forward as the pugnacious nationalists in the administration snipe -- but seriously, to go to the New York Times with a seating complaint is quite petty.

Huffington Post

It can be the limitation of options, the curbing of ambitions, or the gentle nudging forward down a path you thought you choose.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

I see the shot quickly, and it can be hard seeing your opponent not doing it". Sports usually change imperceptibly, nudging forwards in increments, so that it is only with the benefit of hindsight - footage of muddy old pitches, of funky old golf swings, of scrum-halves 10st when wet - that you realise exactly how far a sport has come.

BBC

IBM nudges forward in the race to build better quantum chips.

MIT Technology Review

"Politics".Split hairs, not atomsThat partly reflects the fact that the economic liberalisation nudged forward by Muhammad Khatami, Mr Ahmadinejad's timidly liberalising predecessor, has been halted.

The Economist

In August the Senate at last nudged forward its own bill, which would give the FDA more power and give industry more obligations.

The Economist

In fact, he is almost crowded into our presence, nudged forward by the fussy presence of the curtain at his back.

Independent

The resulting scrum saw Quins nudge forward and Evans's penalty had Quins 6-3 up after he had equalised Flood's opener.

Independent

President Obama was scheduled to visit the country in October to nudge forward a new security accord, but the trip was canceled because of the government shutdown.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "nudging forward" to describe situations where progress is being made in small, often imperceptible increments. This phrase is effective when emphasizing the gradual nature of advancement or influence.

Common error

Avoid using "nudging forward" when describing significant leaps or rapid advancements. The phrase implies a gentle, gradual process, and using it in the wrong context can undermine the impact you're trying to convey.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "nudging forward" functions as a verb phrase describing an action of gradual or slight advancement. As per Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

19%

Science

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "nudging forward" describes a gradual and gentle advancement. As verified by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and sees consistent usage across various contexts. Primarily found in news and media, as well as formal and business environments, it denotes subtle progress or encouragement. While interchangeable with phrases like "pushing ahead" or "inching forward", it uniquely conveys a lighter touch. When using "nudging forward", ensure it aligns with the gradual nature of the progress you are describing to accurately reflect the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pushing ahead

Implies a more forceful and determined advancement compared to a gentle nudge.

inching forward

Suggests a very slow and cautious movement, emphasizing the small increments of progress.

progressing gradually

Focuses on the slowness and steadiness of the advancement.

slowly advancing

Similar to progressing gradually, but highlights the lack of speed.

making headway

Indicates progress, often against resistance, whereas "nudging forward" implies a lighter touch.

gaining ground

Implies overcoming obstacles or competition to advance.

moving incrementally

Emphasizes the small, measurable steps of advancement.

fostering advancement

Focuses on the act of promoting growth, rather than the advancement itself.

lightly encouraging progress

Highlights the gentle and supportive aspect of promoting progress.

facilitating small steps

Emphasizes the ease and support in making small improvements.

FAQs

What does "nudging forward" mean?

The phrase "nudging forward" means making slight, gradual progress or advancement. It suggests a gentle push or encouragement in a particular direction.

How can I use "nudging forward" in a sentence?

You can use "nudging forward" to describe gradual progress, for instance, "The company is "nudging forward" with its new product development."

What can I say instead of "nudging forward"?

You can use alternatives like "pushing ahead", "inching forward", or "progressing gradually depending on the context.

Is "nudging forward" formal or informal?

"Nudging forward" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's often best suited for situations where a less forceful or aggressive tone is desired. It's suitable in news articles, business reports or academic analyses, but can be used also in informal conversation.