English Reference
adjective · noun

advancing

adj. · n.
US /ədˈvænsɪŋ/ UK /ɐdvˈænsɪŋ/ ad·vanc·ing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.moving toward a person or place, often in a threatening way.

    adj.moving forward in a physical sense, frequently used in military or competitive contexts to describe an approaching force.

    Simple

    The villagers fled into the mountains to escape the advancing army.

    In context

    The advancing storm clouds prompted the race officials to suspend the competition until the weather front had safely passed the stadium.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    adj.used to describe someone who is becoming old.

    adj.progressing in age; almost exclusively used in the phrase 'advancing years' as a polite way to discuss aging.

    Simple

    Despite his advancing years, he still walks five miles every morning.

    In context

    She remained remarkably sharp and active despite her advancing age, continuing to publish academic papers well into her eighties.

    Usage

    Usually appears before the noun 'age' or 'years'.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.developing or improving in a specific area.

    adj.making progress or developing in a specific field, technology, or social movement.

    Simple

    The advancing technology in smartphones makes older models look very basic.

    In context

    The advancing tide of public opinion eventually forced the government to reconsider its stance on environmental regulations.

    regressing
  4. 04 C1 Advanced Formal

    n.the movement of going forward or making progress.

    n.the action of proceeding forward or making an advance.

    Simple

    The advancing of the project was slowed down by a lack of money.

    In context

    The steady advancing of the desert across the plains has become a major concern for local farmers and environmentalists.

Eight of those 20 teams would take part in a play-in round, with four advancing to create a final field of 16 teams.

The Guardian· 20 Aug 2026

Importantly, you should master each task or level of difficulty before advancing.

ScienceDaily· 16 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated