English Reference

Word

strides

US/ˈstɹaɪdz/

UK/stɹˈaɪdz/

Countable noun

Definition

n. large steps or significant progress toward a goal. You use this when someone is moving forward quickly or making a big improvement.

n. significant progress or advancements toward a specific objective; also refers to long, decisive steps in walking or running.

Examples

“The team made great strides in their research this month.”

“Medical science has made enormous strides in treating rare diseases over the last decade, saving thousands of lives.”

“While the initial phase of the project was slow, the engineering department has recently made significant strides toward completing the prototype ahead of the winter deadline.”

Examples

simple

“The team made great strides in their research this month.”

contextual

“Medical science has made enormous strides in treating rare diseases over the last decade, saving thousands of lives.”

complex

“While the initial phase of the project was slow, the engineering department has recently made significant strides toward completing the prototype ahead of the winter deadline.”

Usage

Almost always used in the plural form when referring to progress.

Pitfall

He made a great stride in his work.

He made great strides in his work.

When referring to progress or improvement, the word is almost exclusively used in the plural.

Real-World Examples

“As a result, their strides were shorter, and their walking speeds were slower.”
ScienceDaily 16 Aug 2026
“Prof Fitzgerald said it was important for the centre to be based in Cambridge, which she said had "a rich history of making huge strides in cancer research".”
BBC 21 Sept 2022
“We’ve made great strides in understanding the process by which chemistry on Earth became biology.”
The Guardian 29 May 2016

Word family

NOUN

strides(B2)

This entry

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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

englishreference.com/q/strides

English Reference