to make incremental progress

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to make incremental progress" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing gradual improvements or advancements in a particular area or project. Example: "Our team has been working hard to make incremental progress on the new software update, ensuring each version is better than the last."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Meanwhile, Gambetti's lab began to make incremental progress in understanding the disease.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I expect this to be a journey where we continue to make incremental progress," she said.

The New York Times

The most revered members of this institution accepted the necessity of compromise in order to make incremental progress on solving America's problems and to defend her from her adversaries".

The New Yorker

Mr McCain spoke at the institute's opening, recalling shouting matches with Kennedy, and mourning him as a friend who knew how to make "incremental progress on the problems of our time".That is where heartbreak intrudes, when watching teenage mock-senators trying to craft laws which might do some good.

The Economist

Those hoping for a single "cure" were disappointed because cancer turned out to be not a single problem but a complex arrangement of inter-related problems on which we continue to make incremental progress.

TechCrunch

To make incremental progress, you have to be BRAVE!

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

In following the scientific process, it is often more difficult to prove something than to disprove it, so many scientists make incremental progress by disproving a series of smaller null hypotheses.

The New York Times

But Republicans say they can make incremental progress without the economic costs they contend the Democratic plans pose to the nation.

The New York Times

How can we take the first small steps and make incremental progress?

BMC Genomics

Make incremental progress: learn new skills and sharpen the ones you have towards your chosen career goal.

WikiHow

But now, after years of moribund diplomacy in the face of horrific bloodshed and waves of terrified refugees, he seemed to be making incremental progress.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to make incremental progress" when you want to emphasize that achieving a goal requires a series of small steps rather than a single large leap. This is especially useful in project management or when discussing long-term objectives.

Common error

Avoid using "to make incremental progress" when the changes are substantial or revolutionary. Using it in such contexts can diminish the significance of the actual advancements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to make incremental progress" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose or intention. It describes the goal of achieving advancement through a series of small steps. Ludwig AI indicates its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to make incremental progress" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe gradual improvement over time. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for use in a variety of contexts, particularly in news, science, and professional settings. While generally neutral, it suggests a realistic approach to complex challenges, favoring consistency over radical transformation. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the scale of advancement and avoid overstating the impact of small changes. Alternatives such as "to achieve gradual improvement" or "to advance step by step" can be considered for nuanced emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to achieve gradual improvement

Focuses on the achievement of improvement rather than the act of making progress.

to advance step by step

Emphasizes the sequential nature of the progress.

to gain ground steadily

Suggests a more competitive or challenging context.

to move forward gradually

Highlights the forward direction of the advancement.

to make steady headway

Implies overcoming obstacles while progressing.

to inch closer to the goal

Uses a visual metaphor of small movements.

to develop gradually

Focuses on the development aspect of the progress.

to improve bit by bit

Emphasizes the small size of each improvement.

to proceed in stages

Highlights the structured, phased approach to progress.

to climb the ladder slowly

Uses a metaphor of climbing to represent progress.

FAQs

How can I use "to make incremental progress" in a sentence?

You can use "to make incremental progress" to describe a situation where gradual improvements are being made over time. For example, "The team is working hard "to make incremental progress" on the project, focusing on small improvements each week."

What are some alternatives to saying "to make incremental progress"?

Alternatives include "to achieve gradual improvement", "to advance step by step", or "to gain ground steadily". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to aim for incremental progress or revolutionary change?

Whether incremental progress or revolutionary change is better depends on the situation. Incremental progress is often more sustainable and less disruptive, while revolutionary change can bring about rapid transformation but may also be more risky. The most suitable strategy depends on the specific goals and constraints of the project or situation.

How does "to make incremental progress" relate to long-term goals?

"To make incremental progress" is often a key element in achieving long-term goals. By breaking down a large goal into smaller, manageable steps and focusing on making small improvements over time, it becomes easier to stay motivated and achieve the desired outcome. Consistent incremental progress can lead to significant results in the long run.