# advance to

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/advance-to
Updated: 2026-07-26

## Definition

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

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

## Examples

- The team will advance to the finals next week.
- After three years in the junior role, she finally managed to advance to a senior management position.
- The battalion continued to advance to the northern ridge despite the deteriorating weather conditions and limited visibility.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.