Underway vs Under Way
What’s the difference between them?
Underway
Meaning:
adjective: on progress; occurring.
Examples:
1. The construction of the new bridge is underway and is expected to be completed by next year.
2. The preparations for the event are already underway, with volunteers working diligently to ensure its success.
3. The research project is currently underway, with promising initial results.
Under Way
Meaning:
adverb: in progress; proceeding; ongoing.
Examples:
1. The negotiations between the two countries are under way, and diplomats are working towards a peaceful resolution.
2. The scientific experiment is under way in the laboratory, with data being collected for analysis.
3. The renovation of the historic building is well under way, preserving its architectural heritage.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Underway
1. In progress
2. Progressing
3. Commenced
4. Initiated
5. Undertake
1. Stationary
2. Halted
3. Stopped
4. Ceased
5. At a Standstill
Under Way
1. In Progress
2. On the Go
3. Moving Ahead
4. Making Progress
5. Commenced
1. At a Standstill
2. Halted
3. Interrupted
4. At a Halt
5. Stagnant
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Underway", "Under Way".
1. The primary distinction between the two words is that 'underway' is an adjective and 'under way' is an adverb.
2. 'Underway' describes a situation or event that is already in progress or is about to begin.
3. While 'under way' modifies the verb of the sentence to indicate that something is currently taking place.
4. When referring to a situation that is currently occurring, use the adverb form 'under way'.
5. When describing an event that is going to happen soon or is already happening, use the adjective form 'underway'.
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Frequently asked questions
When should the adjective 'underway' be used?
The adjective 'underway' should be used to describe an activity or process that has already begun or is in progress. For example, you can say 'the construction project is underway' or 'the meeting is already underway'.
When is the appropriate context for using the adverb 'under way'?
The adverb 'under way' is most appropriate when describing an action or process that has started and is continuing to progress. For example, you could say 'the project is now underway' or 'the renovation is well under way'.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
Yes, both the adjective and adverb forms of the phrase 'underway' are pronounced the same: 'uhn-der-wey'.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake people make when using these words is confusing the adjective and adverb forms. It is important to remember that the adjective 'underway' is used to describe an activity or process that has already begun, while the adverb 'underway' is used to describe a process that is continuing or in progress. Additionally, people may incorrectly spell the phrase as 'under way' instead of 'underway'.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. The construction of the new bridge is already _____.
2. Once the preparations are complete, the ceremony will be _____.
3. The ship is now _____ to its next destination.
4. With all the participants in place, the meeting got _____.
5. Investigations into the matter are _____ and results will be out soon.
6. Im glad to hear that the project is finally _____.
1. Underway
Explanation: Here, were describing the state or condition of the bridges construction. The adjective form, underway, fits best in this context.
2. Under Way
Explanation: In this sentence, the phrase is acting as an adverb to describe the ceremonys status, so under way is the appropriate choice.
3. Under Way
Explanation: The ships movement or progress towards its next destination is being described in an adverbial manner, hence under way is the fitting choice.
4. Under Way
Explanation: The sentence describes the commencement or progression of the meeting. As it acts in an adverbial manner, under way is suitable.
5. Underway
Explanation: Were talking about the state of the investigations. Thus, the adjective underway is the correct choice.
6. Underway
Explanation: The state or condition of the project is being described. Therefore, underway is the right pick.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.