progress in stages

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "progress in stages" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process that occurs gradually or in distinct phases. Example: "To ensure a smooth transition, we will progress in stages, starting with the initial assessment."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

The trial is designed to progress in stages, so Brenden's improved health cleared the way for a second patient to begin the same treatment, this time at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland.

Harvard University

Like other forms of mechanical damage, wear may progress in stages, the length and severity of which depend upon the type of wear and the nature of the tribosystem.

Wear

Business transactions progress in stages from across the desk to beside the desk, to the coffee table, then on to the conference table, the luncheon table, or the golf course, or even into the home all according to a complex set of hidden rules which we obey instinctively.

Harvard Business Review

Blossom is a project-management tool designed to let you follow event progress in stages.

Forbes

All military robots are currently operated by a human, and while autonomous robots are in development, that autonomy will progress in stages – they'll require less and less control by humans until they're fully automated.

TechCrunch

"Grief is meant to progress in stages – from denial to anger, bargaining, depression and finally acceptance – but I seem to be stuck with a sad sort of rage".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"Excelsior" also allowed Manzotti to display progress in stage machinery.

The New York Times - Arts

More than 70% are in fact low-grade (LG) non-infiltrating (NI) cancers at diagnosis, that can be treated endoscopically by transurethral resection (TUR) alone, recur at least once and 10-20% progress in stage and grade.

BMC Cancer

More than 70% are low-grade (LG) non-infiltrating (NI) cancers at diagnosis, but 60-80% of them recur at least one time and 10-20% progress in stage and grade.

BMC Cancer

SSPE typically progresses in stages.

The Washington Post

The algorithm progresses in stages.

Microelectronic Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing projects or processes, use "progress in stages" to clearly communicate a structured approach and manage expectations about the timeline.

Common error

While "progress in stages" is useful, avoid using it repeatedly in the same document. Vary your language with alternatives like "develop gradually" or "advance incrementally" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "progress in stages" functions as a descriptor, indicating how a particular activity or process is carried out. It suggests a systematic, phased approach where advancement occurs incrementally, which is supported by Ludwig's examples showcasing its application in various contexts like medical trials, business transactions, and military technology.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

38%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "progress in stages" is a grammatically sound expression that describes a gradual and methodical advancement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts, including science, news, and academia, with a neutral to formal tone. While not extremely common, the phrase is well-understood and effectively communicates a structured approach to development. Related phrases such as "advance incrementally" and "develop gradually" offer similar meanings, allowing for diverse language use. Understanding the best practices, such as using it to manage expectations in projects, and avoiding overuse, ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

advance incrementally

Focuses on small, measured steps in the process.

develop gradually

Emphasizes the slow and steady nature of the progression.

unfold in phases

Highlights the distinct and sequential nature of the stages.

move forward in steps

Stresses the forward direction and discrete nature of the advancements.

proceed in a staged manner

Formal and emphasizes a planned, structured progression.

evolve step by step

Highlights a gradual evolution of something.

grow in increments

Focuses on growth and small, measurable increases.

build up gradually

Emphasizes the accumulation and construction aspect of the process.

break down into phases

Highlights the action of dividing a task or project in sequential parts.

advance in a series of steps

Highlights the sequential and structured advancement.

FAQs

How can I use "progress in stages" in a sentence?

You can use "progress in stages" to describe a process that unfolds gradually and systematically. For example, "The project will "progress in stages", beginning with the initial planning phase".

What are some alternatives to "progress in stages"?

Alternatives include phrases like "advance incrementally", "develop gradually", or "unfold in phases", each offering a slightly different nuance depending on the context.

Is it better to say "progress in stages" or "progress through stages"?

Both "progress in stages" and "progress through stages" are grammatically correct, but "progress in stages" is generally preferred when emphasizing the structured nature of the progression, while "progress through stages" highlights the completion of each stage as part of the overall process.

In what contexts is "progress in stages" most appropriate?

"Progress in stages" is suitable for describing any process that is deliberately structured into distinct phases, such as software development, medical treatment, or project management.