Word
in progress
Definition
prepositional phrase. happening right now and not yet finished.
prepositional phrase. currently happening or being carried out; indicates an ongoing state of development or activity that has not reached completion.
Examples
“The construction work is still in progress.”
“Please be quiet in the hallway because there is an examination in progress.”
“The report highlights several projects currently in progress that aim to revitalize the city's industrial waterfront.”
Examples
simple
“The construction work is still in progress.”
contextual
“Please be quiet in the hallway because there is an examination in progress.”
complex
“The report highlights several projects currently in progress that aim to revitalize the city's industrial waterfront.”
Usage
often follows a noun or the verb 'to be'; it does not take an article.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'underway' (more formal) and 'happening' (more general); it is frequently seen on signs to indicate active work or events.
Pitfall
The work is in the progress.
The work is in progress.
the phrase is a fixed prepositional idiom and does not take a definite article.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/in-progress