Process vs. Progress: The Juggling Act Explained!

In Process vs. In Progress

History

Both “in process” and “in progress” come from old English words. “Process” comes from a Latin word that means “to move forward.” “Progress” comes from a Latin word that means “to step forward.”

How to Use Them

“In process” means that something is happening in steps or stages. “In progress” means that something is happening but is not finished yet.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Think of “process” as small steps, and “progress” as the whole journey. If something has steps, it is “in process.” If something is on its way to being done, it is “in progress.”

Examples

In Process

1. The cake is in process, it needs to be baked.
2. The car repair is in process, the mechanic is working on it.
3. The exam grading is in process, the teacher is marking the papers.
4. The project plan is in process, they are setting goals.
5. The visa application is in process, they are checking the papers.

In Progress

1. The build of the new house is in progress, it will be finished soon.
2. The student’s learning is in progress, they are still studying.
3. The game’s development is in progress, it will release next year.
4. The cleaning of the park is in progress, people are picking up trash.
5. The road construction is in progress, it is not done yet.

Summary

Use “in process” when something is happening in steps. Use “in progress” when something is on its way to being done but is not finished yet. Remember: process = steps, progress = journey.