progress in the right direction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'progress in the right direction' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to acknowledge or emphasize that something is improving or headed in the right direction. For example, "We are pleased to see that our sales numbers have been steadily increasing, indicating that our efforts are progressing in the right direction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

"Hopefully, they'll make progress in the right direction -- moving on, getting housing, staying clean".

The New York Times

What the US needs now is progress in the right direction.

The Guardian - Business

And there were gains that suggest progress in the right direction.

The Guardian

I am delighted that there is progress in the right direction on this issue".

The Guardian

"He seems to be making progress in the right direction here".

The Guardian

"It doesn't make any progress in the right direction," said Representative Tom Price, Republican of Georgia.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Are we progressing in the right direction?

Landscape and Urban Planning

Everything's progressing in the right direction".

The Guardian - Sport

"We have just spent the last few years progressing in the right direction and now this.

The Guardian

Today's labour market report confirms that the labour market is progressing in the right direction, albeit at a slow pace.

The Guardian - Business

SIR —Your conclusion that the UK government is progressing in the right direction in welfare reform by targeting lone parents with children aged 12 and over is contradicted by the very evidence you present.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "progress in the right direction" to acknowledge incremental improvements or when emphasizing that efforts are aligned with a desired goal.

Common error

Avoid overstating the significance of "progress in the right direction". While it's positive, ensure you don't present it as a complete solution or overlook remaining challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "progress in the right direction" functions as a noun phrase that describes a state of advancement or improvement that is aligned with a desired outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "progress in the right direction" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies advancement towards a desired goal. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is appropriate for various contexts, ranging from formal business communications to casual news reports. The phrase effectively communicates that efforts are yielding positive results, even if the ultimate objective has not yet been fully achieved. Alternatives include phrases like "on the right track" or "heading in the right direction", each with slightly different nuances. When using the phrase, it is crucial to ensure that incremental steps are not overstated as complete success.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heading in the right direction

Emphasizes movement or momentum towards a favorable outcome.

on the right track

Implies being on the correct course or path.

advancing positively

Stresses the beneficial nature of the advancement.

positive trajectory

Focuses on the path or course of development.

improving steadily

Implies consistent and gradual improvement.

moving forward constructively

Highlights the positive and productive nature of the progress.

making headway

Highlights overcoming obstacles and achieving advancement.

developing favorably

Focuses on the positive development or evolution of something.

gaining ground

Suggests making progress and gaining an advantage.

turning a corner

Suggests a significant positive change after a period of difficulty.

FAQs

How can I use "progress in the right direction" in a sentence?

You can use "progress in the right direction" to describe improvements or advancements that are aligned with a specific goal. For example, "The new policies represent "progress in the right direction" towards environmental sustainability".

What are some alternatives to saying "progress in the right direction"?

Alternatives include phrases like "on the right track", "heading in the right direction", or "positive trajectory", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it acceptable to use "progress in the right direction" in formal writing?

Yes, "progress in the right direction" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe positive developments.

What's the difference between "progress in the right direction" and "achieving the goal"?

"Progress in the right direction" indicates movement towards a goal, while "achieving the goal" means the objective has been fully realized. The former suggests ongoing efforts, while the latter signifies completion.