# strides

/ˈstɹaɪdz/ (US) · /stɹˈaɪdz/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/strides
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

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

For teachers: 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He made a great stride in his work." but "He made great strides in his work." — When referring to progress or improvement, the word is almost exclusively used in the plural.

## Usage notes

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

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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.