Translation guide
Expressing the idea of moving forward, advancing, or improving in a task, project, or personal development.
To say that a task, project, or work is advancing or getting closer to completion.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to advance' or 'to make progress'. Used for things moving forward on their own, like work or preparations.
Work is progressing smoothly.
Preparations have made considerable progress.
Transitive verb meaning 'to advance something' or 'to make progress on something'. Use when someone is actively pushing a task forward.
We are making progress on the project.
Let's move the discussion forward.
Intransitive verb meaning work progresses smoothly and efficiently, often with a sense of good pace. Commonly used for tasks like studying or chores.
I made good progress on my work today.
Studying progresses well in a quiet place.
Slightly formal, meaning 'to advance' or 'to make headway'. Often used in business or project contexts.
Negotiations are making progress.
To express that someone is getting better at something, improving their abilities, or developing personally.
Means to improve in a skill, such as language, sports, or music. Focuses on the person's ability getting better.
My Japanese has improved.
If you practice, you will definitely improve.
Means 'to progress' or 'to advance', often used for personal growth or gradual improvement. Slightly formal.
He has made progress in English.
Means 'to grow' or 'to develop' as a person. Broader than just skill, includes maturity and character.
I grew a lot through this experience.
To describe literal or figurative forward movement, such as walking, driving, or advancing in a process.
To emphasize that progress is being made even when it's slow or challenging.
The phrase 'make progress' cannot be directly translated word-for-word into Japanese. Instead, use verbs like 進む (susumu) or 進める (susumeru) depending on transitivity.
Do not say 'shinpo wo tsukuru'.
進む (susumu) is intransitive: the subject itself advances. 進める (susumeru) is transitive: someone advances something. Choose based on whether the progress is happening by itself or is being driven by a person.