ENGLISH
REFERENCE

advance to

phrasal verb.
B2 Upper Intermediate Academic General-service
Definition

phrasal verb. to move forward to a higher level, a later stage, or a new position.

phrasal verb. to progress to a subsequent stage or higher rank. Transitive when followed by a prepositional object; often used in competitive, professional, or military contexts.


SIMPLE

The team will advance to the finals next week.

CONTEXTUAL

After three years in the junior role, she finally managed to advance to a senior management position.

COMPLEX

The battalion continued to advance to the northern ridge despite the deteriorating weather conditions and limited visibility.

  • progress to
  • move up to
  • reach
  • proceed to
Particles
to
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
advance + to + object
Usage

typically followed by a noun representing a goal, a rank, or a physical destination.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'move to' which is neutral; 'advance to' implies effort, achievement, or a structured progression through levels.

Last updated July 26, 2026