Progressive

Definition

Progressive generally denotes favoring or advocating progress, change, improvement, or reform, especially in political matters.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun (e.g., a progressive individual)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /prəˈɡrɛsɪv/
• Respelling: pruh-GRES-iv (with "pruh" as in "product," "GRES" as in "dress," and "iv" as in "live")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /prəˈɡrɛsɪv/
• Respelling: pruh-GRES-iv (similar to American English, with "pruh" as in "product," "GRES" as in "dress," and "iv" as in "live")

In both dialects, "progressive" is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable, "GRES." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating the word with emphasis on the "GRES" part.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "progressus", meaning "an advance", from the verb "progredi", meaning "to go forth" or "to advance". The term has been in use since the late 14th century, originally referring to the act or process of progressing. Its modern political and social connotations developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Derivatives

• Progressively
• Progressiveness
• Progressivism
• Progressivist
• Progressive rock (a genre of music)

Synonyms

• Advanced
• Forward-thinking
• Modernistic

Antonyms

• Regressive
• Traditionalistic
• Conservative

Usage

"Progressive" can describe both political ideologies that advocate for social reform and change, as well as general processes or phenomena that develop gradually over time. It is also used in various specific contexts, such as in music genres or insurance policies.

Related Terms

• Evolution
• Liberal
• Advancement
• Progression
• Reform

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Favoring Change or Reform: Pertaining to or characterized by progression or a push towards change and innovation, especially in societal or political contexts.
• Example: The mayor has progressive views on environmental issues.

• Gradual Development: Developing or happening gradually over time, rather than suddenly.
• Example: She suffers from a progressive illness that affects her mobility.

• Specific Contexts: In specific contexts, it can refer to a particular style or type, such as in music.
• Example: They are a progressive rock band.

Noun

• Advocate for Reform: A person who actively seeks or favors social, political, or economic reform or changes.
• Example: The conference attracted liberals and progressives from all over the country.

• Specific Contexts: In some contexts, it can denote a specific type or category, such as a type of tax or insurance policy.
• Example: The country has a progressive tax system.