Translation guide
The English word 'progress' can refer to advancement toward a goal, improvement over time, or the state of a project. Japanese uses different words depending on whether you mean smooth advancement, gradual improvement, or the current status.
To say that something is moving forward or making headway, such as a project, plan, or work.
The most common and neutral word for progress on a task or project. Often used in business and formal contexts.
プロジェクトの進捗はどうですか？
How is the progress of the project?
進捗状況を報告してください。
Please report on the progress status.
A slightly more casual way to ask about how things are going. Literally 'state of advancement'.
仕事の進み具合はどう？
How's the work coming along?
Often used for the progress of events, schedules, or formal proceedings. Can also mean 'advance' of a disease.
工事は順調に進行しています。
The construction is progressing smoothly.
To talk about gradual betterment, such as in skills, society, or technology.
Refers to progress in the sense of advancement or improvement, often in civilization, science, or personal ability.
科学の進歩は目覚ましい。
The progress of science is remarkable.
彼は英語がかなり進歩した。
He has made considerable progress in English.
Specifically for progress in a skill or art, like language, sports, or music.
Progress in the sense of growth or expansion, often for economies, cities, or organizations.
To describe something that is not yet finished but is being worked on.
Means 'in progress' or 'underway'. Used for tasks, events, or projects.
その計画はまだ進行中です。
The plan is still in progress.
Literally 'in the middle of work'. Often used for physical or manual tasks.
ただいま作業中です。
We are currently working on it. (Work in progress.)
How to say 'to progress' or 'to make progress' as an action.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to advance' or 'to make progress'. Very common.
仕事がなかなか進まない。
The work just isn't progressing.
Transitive verb meaning 'to advance something' or 'to move something forward'.
Means 'to make smooth progress' or 'to get along well with work'. Often used when work is going faster than expected.
進捗 (しんちょく) is about the advancement of a specific task or project, often measurable. 進歩 (しんぽ) is about qualitative improvement over time, like progress in science or personal growth. Use 進捗 for 'How is the report coming along?' and 進歩 for 'He has made progress in his studies.'
The loanword プログレス is rarely used in natural Japanese. Stick to the native terms above.
ピアノが上達して嬉しい。
I'm happy that my piano playing is progressing.
この町は急速に発展した。
This town has progressed rapidly.
計画を進めましょう。
Let's move the plan forward.
今日は仕事がはかどった。
I made good progress on my work today.