picking up pace

USAGE SUMMARY

"picking up pace" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to gradually increase in speed or intensity. You can use it when describing a situation, action, or process that is becoming faster or more forceful. Example: The music started off slow, but as the beat picked up pace, the crowd began to dance enthusiastically.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

That shot seemed to be picking up pace.

The Guardian - Sport

AMERICA'S economy is finally beginning to feel like it is picking up pace.

The Economist

Today, however, the onslaught of crises is picking up pace, and the EU is under pressure.

The Guardian

ALMOST everywhere you look, the American recovery seems to be picking up pace.

The Economist

And economic growth numbers for the third quarter showed household spending picking up pace as well.

The New York Times

The car felt great and I was trying to nurse my tyres while picking up pace.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Incrementally the event picks up pace.

The Guardian - Music

Then it picks up pace and I can't escape it.

The Guardian - Books

As the city's modernization picks up pace, it seems, the pace of nostalgia accelerates with it.

The New York Times

As the city's modernization picks up pace, it seems, the pace of nostalgia accelerates along with it.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, the "differentiation" strategy picks up pace.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "picking up pace" to describe processes, activities, or trends that are gradually increasing in speed, intensity, or frequency. It effectively conveys a sense of forward motion and development.

Common error

Avoid using "picking up pace" to describe situations that are already at their maximum speed or intensity. It's best suited for scenarios where a gradual increase is observable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "picking up pace" functions as a verb phrase indicating a gradual increase in speed, intensity, or activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is correct and commonly used to describe a situation that is becoming faster or more forceful. The examples in Ludwig demonstrate its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Formal & Business

17%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "picking up pace" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe a gradual increase in speed, intensity, or activity. As Ludwig AI validates, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news and media, formal business settings, and scientific publications. Its primary function is to describe developmental trends, conveying that something is not just progressing, but accelerating. While suitable for neutral and professional registers, it is essential to avoid overusing it in static situations. The alternative phrases include "gaining momentum", "gathering speed", and "accelerating", each offering slightly different nuances. Therefore, when you want to express an increase in speed or intensity, "picking up pace" is a reliable and widely understood choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gaining momentum

Focuses more on the build-up of force or influence rather than just speed.

gathering speed

Emphasizes the increase in velocity, often in a literal sense.

accelerating

A more formal term that directly indicates an increase in rate or speed.

gaining traction

Suggests progress is being made and becoming more effective, often in a business context.

building up steam

Implies that something is gradually increasing in power or energy.

stepping up

Indicates an increase in effort or activity, often in response to a challenge.

intensifying

Focuses on the increase in strength or severity of something.

ramping up

Suggests a rapid increase in production or activity.

gaining ground

Indicates progress in overcoming obstacles or competition.

progressing rapidly

Highlights the swift advancement or development of something.

FAQs

How can I use "picking up pace" in a sentence?

You can use "picking up pace" to describe situations where something is increasing in speed or intensity, such as "The economic recovery is "picking up pace"" or "The project is "picking up pace" as we approach the deadline".

What are some alternatives to "picking up pace"?

Some alternatives include "gaining momentum", "gathering speed", or "accelerating". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "picked up pace" instead of "picking up pace"?

Yes, "picked up pace" is the past tense form of the phrase. For example, "The project "picked up pace" after the initial challenges were resolved".

What's the difference between "picking up pace" and "gaining momentum"?

"Picking up pace" generally refers to an increase in speed or frequency, while "gaining momentum" implies a build-up of force or influence. They are similar, but "gaining momentum" suggests more than just speed; it includes impact.