gained ground
/ɡeɪnd ɡraʊnd/
VERB
1. To make progress or advance
To move forward, make progress, or advance toward a goal, destination, or desired result.
1.1. Making progress or moving forward
Advancing physically, figuratively, or toward a particular objective by making steady progress.
Synonyms
- advanced
- progressed
- proceeded
- came along
- got along
- got on
- went along
- marched
- forged ahead
- pushed forward
- journeyed
- traveled
- traversed
- moved forward
Antonyms
- regressed
- retreated
- receded
- fell behind
- stalled
- halted
- stopped
- remained
- stood still
Examples
- The research team gained ground after discovering a promising new approach.
- The construction project gained ground despite several unexpected delays.
- The hikers gained ground as they approached the mountain summit.
Related Words
- headway
- advancement
- development
- momentum
- movement
- progress
1.2. Approaching or catching up with someone
Reducing the distance between oneself and someone or something ahead, often while pursuing or competing against them.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- fell behind
- lagged
- receded
- retreated
- dropped back
Examples
- The pursuing runner gained ground on the leader during the final stretch.
- The second-place cyclist gained ground as the race approached its conclusion.
Related Words
- pursued
- chased
- followed
- overtook
- passed
VERB
2. To become more successful, influential, or widely accepted
To increase in popularity, acceptance, influence, or competitive strength within a particular field, group, or market.
2.1. Increasing popularity or acceptance
Becoming more widely accepted, recognized, or supported by people over time.
Synonyms
- advanced
- progressed
- spread
- grew
- flourished
- prospered
- caught on
- became popular
- gained acceptance
Antonyms
Examples
- The idea of remote work gained ground as more companies adopted flexible working arrangements.
- The environmental movement gained ground as public awareness of climate change increased.
- The candidate steadily gained ground in the polls during the election campaign.
Related Words
- acceptance
- recognition
- approval
- influence
- popularity
- adoption
2.2. Improving a competitive position
Making progress relative to competitors by becoming stronger, more successful, or more influential.
Synonyms
- advanced
- progressed
- improved
- accelerated
- surged
- forged ahead
- moved ahead
Antonyms
- fell behind
- regressed
- declined
- stalled
- lost ground
- lagged
Examples
- The technology company gained ground against its larger competitors.
- The underdog team gained ground and eventually took the lead in the competition.
Related Words
- competitive advantage
- market share
- momentum
- growth
- advancement