things are happening

USAGE SUMMARY

"things are happening" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that things are occurring, or events are taking place. For example: "It seems like things are happening fast around here."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Good things are happening.

The New York Times - Sports

Strange things are happening.

The New York Times

Big things are happening.

The New York Times

Horrible things are happening.

The Guardian - Opinion

But two things are happening.

The Economist

"Beautiful things are happening there.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Amazing, inspiring things are happening.

The New York Times

Fascinating things are happening.

The Guardian - Tech

Two things are happening.

The New York Times - Arts

Things are happening.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Slowly, real things are happening".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context to choose a more precise phrase if you need to highlight specific types of activities (e.g. "developments are occurring" for progress, "events are unfolding" for drama).

Common error

While "things are happening" is widely understood, it can sound informal in some professional or academic settings. Use more precise language, such as "developments are underway" or "progress is being made", to maintain a formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things are happening" functions as a descriptive statement indicating ongoing events or activities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a versatile expression used to convey that something is taking place. Examples show it used in various contexts, from describing global events to personal experiences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

18%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "things are happening" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate that events are unfolding or changes are occurring. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's versatile and widely understood, making it appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, media and academic writing. While useful, it's important to be mindful of the register and to use more specific language in formal settings. Alternatives such as "developments are occurring" or "progress is being made" can provide a more formal tone when needed. By understanding its nuances and appropriate contexts, you can effectively use "things are happening" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

events are unfolding

Focuses on the unfolding nature of events, similar to things in progress.

developments are occurring

Emphasizes the aspect of development and change.

progress is being made

Highlights the positive direction and advancement.

actions are underway

Stresses that actions have started and are ongoing.

situations are evolving

Emphasizes the changes and progression of situations.

changes are taking place

Focuses on the aspect of change and transformation.

activity is ongoing

Highlights continuous activity and movement.

something is stirring

Suggests that something new or significant is beginning.

the ball is rolling

Indicates that an initiative or plan has commenced.

work is in progress

Focuses on the active work being done.

FAQs

How can I use "things are happening" in a sentence?

You can use "things are happening" to describe a situation where events are unfolding or progress is being made. For example: "It seems like "things are happening" quickly in the tech industry lately."

What's a more formal way to say "things are happening"?

For more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "developments are occurring" or "progress is being made", which convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

When is it appropriate to use "things are happening"?

It’s appropriate in casual conversations, news reports, and general discussions where you want to indicate that events are taking place. However, in formal reports or academic papers, more specific language is generally preferred.

What does it mean when someone says "things are happening"?

Generally, it means that events are unfolding, changes are occurring, or progress is being made. The specific meaning depends on the context, but it typically implies some level of activity or change.