WordGarden.iounderway
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˌʌndəwˈeɪ/
US
- /ˌəndərˈweɪ/
Meanings
Adjective
having started and continuing
moving through the water or otherwise in motion, especially of a vessel
Beyond the definition
Imagine a ship leaving port: it's underway. But "underway" is not just about boats. It means something has started, is actively happening, or is moving forward. A project can be underway, meaning work has started and is continuing. You might hear it used for a journey too, as in "The expedition is now underway," which shows that the adventure has truly started. Think of it as a sign that things are happening now, not just being planned. It often carries a sense of movement and progress toward a goal.
"Underway" originally described a ship being in motion, no longer anchored or docked. Over time, its meaning has broadened to encompass any process, journey, or activity that has begun and is currently in progress.
You'll often hear it used when describing large-scale projects: "Construction of the new library is now underway." This means work has started on the building, and crews are actively working toward completion. It suggests a level of commitment and momentum beyond the mere planning stages.
It can also describe a journey or trip that has started: "Our voyage to Alaska is finally underway!" Here, it emphasizes the excitement and active nature of being on the journey.
Interestingly, "underway" doesn't necessarily mean things are going smoothly. A project might be "underway despite numerous challenges," meaning progress is being made even in the face of obstacles. It simply signifies that something has started and is actively happening, regardless of difficulties.
So, whether it's a ship sailing the seas, a construction project rising from the ground, or an expedition venturing into the unknown—if it's "underway," it means things are in motion and progress is being made.
Examples
- 1
Infrastructure repairs
Repairs to the bridge are already underway.
- 2
Meeting start
The meeting got underway a few minutes late.
- Phraseget underway
begin
- 3
Police investigation
Police say an investigation is underway.
- 4
Planning progress
By June, the wedding plans were well underway.
- Phrasewell underway
already making good progress
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Strike talks
Talks are underway to end the strike.
- Patterntalks are underway to + goal
discussions have started with that goal
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- underwayadjective