onward march

USAGE SUMMARY

"onward march" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used as an idiom to express progress or advancement. Example: "Despite the setbacks, we must continue our onward march towards success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Behold, the onward march of the state.

The Guardian - Opinion

Such figures may suggest that the bribery accord's onward march has been halted.

The Economist

The respectable version has lately been given new impetus by the onward march of European integration.

The Economist

Mr Angourakis reserves his greatest enthusiasm for the onward march of radical leftism in South America.

The Economist

Despite the onward march online, there is still a touching faith in print.

The Guardian

British isolation at summits has become as predictable as the steady onward march of integration.

The Guardian

The onward march of neuroscience has finally reached what it sees as its last frontier.

The Guardian - Books

From scientists to consumers, there's no escaping the onward march of big data.

The Guardian - Tech

On screen, to save a flight was to save the onward march of mankind.

The Guardian - Film

Farage's onward march, like the return of Captain Mainwaring, demonstrates it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's not only at Quiquiriqui that you will find evidence of the spirit's ­onward march, however.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "onward march" to describe societal, technological, or ideological progress. It is particularly effective when discussing historical trends or movements.

Common error

Avoid using "onward march" in casual conversation or informal writing. Its formal tone can sound out of place and pretentious in everyday settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "onward march" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, it expresses progress or advancement. Examples illustrate its use in describing the progression of technology, societal changes, and ideological movements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "onward march" functions as a noun phrase denoting continuous progress or advancement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. Appearing frequently in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts, it carries a formal tone and is best suited for describing historical trends or societal shifts. While grammatically sound and widely used, overusing it in informal settings can sound pretentious. Alternatives such as "relentless progress" or "steady advancement" offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

relentless progress

Focuses on the continuous and determined nature of the advancement.

steady advancement

Highlights the consistent and gradual nature of the progression.

continued development

Emphasizes the ongoing process of growth and evolution.

unyielding progression

Stresses the firmness and determination behind the forward movement.

unstoppable momentum

Conveys the idea of an advance that cannot be halted.

inexorable advance

Highlights the certainty and inevitability of the forward movement.

forward surge

Suggests a sudden and powerful movement ahead.

persistent drive

Emphasizes the continuous effort and motivation behind the progression.

unfaltering course

Implies a steady and unwavering direction of advancement.

continuous climb

Highlights upward movement and improvement over time.

FAQs

How can I use "onward march" in a sentence?

Use "onward march" to describe the continuous progress or advancement of something, such as "the "onward march" of technology" or "the "onward march" of civilization".

What are some alternatives to "onward march"?

Alternatives include "relentless progress", "steady advancement", or "continued development", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "onward march" in formal writing?

Yes, "onward march" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing historical trends, societal changes, or technological advancements.

What is the connotation of "onward march"?

The phrase "onward march" typically carries a connotation of steady, often inevitable, progress, and can sometimes imply a sense of unstoppable force or momentum.