picking up speed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "picking up speed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is accelerating or increasing in pace, whether literally (like a vehicle) or metaphorically (like a project or trend). Example: "As the deadline approached, the team's efforts were picking up speed, and they were making significant progress on the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Picking up speed, Lockyear exclaimed, "This is redneck heaven.

The New Yorker

Picking up speed, they created a wake of white water in front and behind.

The New York Times - Arts

Life's picking up speed.

Independent

It's picking up speed.

The New Yorker

Yet here we are, picking up speed.

The New York Times - Magazine

"The program is really picking up speed".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

We pick up speed, balancing on bollards, scrambling up walls.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Only after the bus picks up speed do the doors shut.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

As the fan picks up speed, I begin to levitate.

Los Angeles Times

He picks up speed; good nobody is behind him.

HuffPost

Pick up speed and refuse to slow down.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "picking up speed" when you want to convey that something is not only moving or progressing, but also increasing its rate of movement or progress. It can apply to physical objects, processes, or even abstract concepts.

Common error

Avoid using "picking up speed" when the context requires a more specific type of acceleration or progress. For example, use "gaining momentum" or "accelerating" if those terms more accurately reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "picking up speed" functions as a phrasal verb indicating an increase in velocity or rate of progress. Ludwig AI shows examples of both literal and metaphorical usage, demonstrating its adaptability across various contexts. The Ludwig AI validates its proper usage in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

20%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "picking up speed" is a versatile and frequently used expression to describe an increase in velocity or momentum. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, primarily in News & Media. While it maintains a neutral register, it's important to consider the context for more formal alternatives like "expediting". The alternative phrases are "gaining momentum" or "accelerating". Remember to use it when describing an increase in rate or progress, whether literal or metaphorical.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gaining momentum

Focuses on the increase in force or impetus, often in a figurative sense.

accelerating

Implies a faster rate of increase in speed or progress.

gathering pace

Similar to "picking up speed" but emphasizes the gradual accumulation of momentum.

gaining traction

Suggests that something is becoming more accepted or popular.

building up steam

Implies a gradual increase in energy or enthusiasm.

moving faster

A more literal and straightforward way of saying something is increasing in speed.

expediting

More formal suggesting speeding up a process

ramping up

Implies expanding production or operations quickly.

surging ahead

Emphasizes rapid and powerful forward movement.

on the rise

Focuses on upward movement or progress, often in a general sense.

FAQs

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

You can use "picking up speed" to describe a physical object that is accelerating, such as "The car was "picking up speed" as it entered the highway". It can also be used metaphorically to describe progress, such as "The project is "picking up speed" now that we have secured funding".

What are some alternatives to "picking up speed"?

Alternatives include "gaining momentum", "accelerating", or "gathering pace". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "picking up speed" formal or informal?

"Picking up speed" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "expediting" might be preferable in some situations.

What is the difference between "picking up speed" and "gaining momentum"?

"Picking up speed" emphasizes the increasing rate of movement, while "gaining momentum" focuses on the increasing force or impetus behind the movement or progress. They are often interchangeable, but not always.