progressief

Progressief, in Dutch usage, describes ideas, movements and cultural forms that advocate reform and improvement. The term signals a forward-looking orientation and a preference for change aimed at social progress, rather than preserving existing structures. It is often contrasted with conservatief (conservative) but the exact policy mix associated with progressief varies by country, era and context.

In politics, progressief denotes reformist or left-leaning positions that emphasize social justice, civil liberties and modernization. Policy emphases commonly include welfare and education, healthcare access, labor rights, environmental protection and inclusive reforms. Because it is a broad label rather than a single doctrine, its concrete programs differ among parties, movements and coalitions, and the term is used by commentators to signal a reformist stance rather than a fixed ideology.

In culture and the arts, progressief is linked to movements that push boundaries and explore new forms. A prominent example is progressive rock, a late 1960s–1970s genre known for extended compositions, complex structures and concept albums. Beyond music, progressief ideas often appear in visual arts, theater and literature through experimentation and socially engaged themes.

In linguistics, the progressive (progressief) aspect refers to a grammatical category that marks actions in progress. In English, this is commonly expressed with be + present participle (am running). Dutch uses periphrastic constructions to convey ongoing action rather than a dedicated progressive tense.

Etymologically, progressief derives from Latin progressus, via French progrès, reflecting a general sense of forward movement and change.