gain ground

/ɡˈeɪn ɡɹˈaʊnd/

[phrase]

to gain ground

[PHRASE]

to achieve more success or popularity

synonyms : advance

antonyms : fall back

What is the origin of the idiom "gain ground" and when to use it?

The idiom "gain ground" is a military metaphor that refers to gaining territory or advancing forward in a battle or war. It implies that progress is being made towards a goal and that the enemy is losing ground. The phrase has since been used in a broader sense to describe making progress towards a goal, achieving more success, or popularity in a particular area.

Examples

1. But Tomec soon gained ground on Reed. -

2. It grew its store base from two hundred ninety seven to one thousand as it looked to gain ground against rivals Sears and Montgomery Ward.

3. Chicken sandwiches remain number two, but they are gaining ground with consumers faster than burgers are.

4. And we are gaining ground!

Nearby words