Progress is movement toward a more developed state or toward a goal.

The idea

Progress is uncountable: make progress, not make a progress. Use progress on a project for the work and in progress for something underway.

Examples

  • She is making progress with her English.
  • The team made good progress on the project.
  • We discussed our progress at the meeting.
  • His progress was gradual over several weeks.
  • The work is still in progress.
  • A short practice session can help you make progress.

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Watch out

Progress does not mean the goal is already complete; in progress specifically says the work is underway.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the uncountable form after make. She hopes to make ___. (progress / a progress)

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    progress

    Uncountable progress follows make without an article.

  2. Choose the preposition before the project. The team made progress ___ the project. (on / from)

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    on

    On introduces the project being worked on.

  3. Choose the meaning of in progress. The work is in progress; it is ___. (underway / already finished)

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    underway

    In progress means the work is underway.

Use it today

Describe progress on a task and say whether the work is complete.