gain ground
/ɡeɪn ɡraʊnd/
VERB
1. To make progress or obtain an advantage
To make progress, move forward, or become more successful, influential, or competitive in a particular situation.
1.1. Making progress or moving forward
Advancing toward a goal or achieving progress after effort, development, or overcoming obstacles.
Synonyms
- advance
- progress
- proceed
- forge ahead
- push forward
- press forward
- move forward
- make headway
- get ahead
- come along
- get along
- get on
- go along
- march
- travel
Antonyms
Examples
- Despite initial setbacks, the team managed to gain ground in the second half of the game.
- The political candidate worked tirelessly to connect with voters and gain ground in the polls.
- In the race for technological supremacy, some companies strive to gain ground through innovation.
Related Words
- headway
- momentum
- advancement
- development
- movement
- acceleration
- improvement
- growth
1.2. Increasing influence, acceptance, or competitive position
Becoming more widely accepted, popular, influential, or successful relative to competitors or opposing groups.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- lose ground
- decline
- regress
- fall behind
- stagnate
- recede
- lose momentum
Examples
- The conservation efforts helped endangered species gain ground and thrive in their natural habitats.
- The candidate gained ground in the polls after connecting with more voters.
- The company gained ground against its competitors through continued innovation.
Related Words
- acceptance
- popularity
- influence
- recognition
- momentum
- competitive advantage
- market position