things are in motion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "things are in motion" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where events or processes are actively happening or changing. Example: "As the project progresses, it's clear that things are in motion, and we need to adapt our strategy accordingly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"Things are in motion," he said.

The New York Times

"Things are in motion, things are proceeding," Carl Lindros said yesterday.

The New York Times - Sports

And if all things are in motion, nothing will be true; everything therefore will be false.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Either all things are at rest, or all things are in motion, or some things are at rest and others in motion.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Once things are in motion and depression has set in, it takes carried degrees of therapeutic services to revert to a normal state.

Harvard University

On HNIC Saturday night, the story was that while nobody's really talking (that is, either Iginla's representation or the Flames), things are in motion to move the star out of Alberta soon.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

But by then, things were in motion.

The New York Times

But the thing is in motion".

The New York Times - Arts

Above all it is plain that this motion, motion in respect of place, is what is in the strictest sense produced by that which moves itself; but it is the self-movent that we declare to be the first principle of things that are moved and impart motion and the primary source to which things that are in motion are to be referred.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The fact that a thing that is in motion derives its motion from something is most evident in things that are in motion unnaturally, because in such cases it is clear that the motion is derived from something other than the thing itself.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Next to things that are in motion unnaturally those whose motion while natural is derived from themselves-e.g.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "things are in motion" to convey that a process has started and is actively progressing. It implies dynamism and ongoing change. Be mindful of the context to ensure it fits the level of formality.

Common error

Avoid using "things are in motion" excessively in formal or stilted writing. While grammatically correct, overuse can make your writing sound cliché. Opt for more specific and descriptive alternatives like "developments are underway" or "progress is being made" depending on the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things are in motion" functions as an idiomatic expression. It is used to describe a state where processes or events have been initiated and are actively progressing. Ludwig AI highlights its use in various contexts, showing its versatility.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "things are in motion" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate that processes or events have begun and are actively progressing. Ludwig AI's analysis, along with numerous examples from sources like The New York Times and academic institutions, confirms its versatility and appropriateness in various contexts. While generally neutral in tone, it's advisable to consider more precise alternatives in highly formal writing. Remember to avoid overuse to maintain clarity and impact. Keep in mind alternatives like "developments are underway", "wheels are turning" or "processes are unfolding".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

developments are underway

Emphasizes ongoing development or progress.

processes are unfolding

Highlights the gradual revealing of events or processes.

wheels are turning

Suggests that the mechanisms for change are engaged.

progress is being made

Focuses on the positive aspect of advancement.

the ball is rolling

Indicates that an initiative has begun and is gathering momentum.

events are transpiring

Offers a more formal way to describe happenings.

action is happening

Simple statement that indicates something is underway.

plans are progressing

Implies movement towards a goal

the gears are grinding

Indicates effort or work is happening, even if progress is slow.

preparations are advancing

Suggests active readiness and imminent progress.

FAQs

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

You can use "things are in motion" to indicate that a process or series of events has begun and is actively progressing. For example, "With the initial funding secured, "things are in motion" for the new project."

What can I say instead of "things are in motion"?

You can use alternatives like "developments are underway", "processes are unfolding", or "wheels are turning" depending on the context.

Is "things are in motion" formal or informal?

"Things are in motion" is generally considered neutral in tone, suitable for both informal and semi-formal contexts. However, in highly formal or academic writing, more precise alternatives might be preferable.

What's the difference between "things are in motion" and "the ball is rolling"?

While both phrases suggest that something has started, "things are in motion" is more general, implying any process is underway. "The ball is rolling" specifically suggests that an initiative or project has begun and is gaining momentum.