Progresses

Progresses is the plural form of progress in English and also the third-person singular present tense of the verb progress. As a noun, progress is typically treated as an uncountable concept, as in “making progress.” The plural noun progresses is uncommon and largely confined to contexts that refer to multiple avenues or stages of advancement, or to older or more formal writing. In practice, writers usually use the singular form or specify distinct types of progress, such as “areas of progress.”

Progress itself refers to forward movement toward a goal, improvement in conditions, or gradual development. It can apply across many domains, including science (new theories or findings), technology (new devices or methods), medicine (new treatments), and social or political life (rights, institutions, governance). Progress is often described in terms of milestones, indicators, benchmarks, or other performance measures.

Usage considerations include the fact that progress is not inherently positive or linear. It can be uneven, context-dependent, or produce unintended consequences. Cultural values influence what is considered progress, and debates frequently address trade-offs between different kinds of advancement, such as economic growth versus environmental sustainability.

Etymology and grammar: progress comes from Latin progressus, from pro- "forward" plus gradi "to step." The verb form progresses is common in standard grammar (as in “the project progresses on schedule”). The noun remains uncountable in most modern contexts, with progresses reserved for particular, often historical or formal, uses.

See also: progress measurement, development, innovation.