Ever stopped mid-sentence, unsure whether to say “in process” or “in progress”? You’re not alone.
These two phrases seem interchangeable at first glance, but they carry subtle distinctions that can shift your sentence’s meaning entirely—especially in business, manufacturing, or day-to-day communication.
In this guide, we’ll break down the true differences, where each phrase fits, and how to use them correctly.
“In process” and “in progress” both describe something ongoing—but they’re not the same. “In process” refers to structured procedures or steps, while “in progress” describes general development. Learn when to use each for clarity and professionalism.
The Similarity in Meaning: Breaking Down ‘In Process’ and ‘In Progress’
Let’s start with the obvious: both in process and in progress refer to something that’s not finished yet.
But here’s the twist—they don’t always mean the same thing.
At a glance:
| Phrase | Meaning | Typical Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| In Process | Something is actively undergoing a defined series of steps | Manufacturing, business workflows, transactions |
| In Progress | Something is underway, often in a general or ongoing sense | Projects, tasks, events, creative work |
Examples:
- Correct: “Your order is in process and will ship soon.”
- Correct: “The renovation is in progress and should finish by June.”
- Incorrect: “The book writing is in process.” → In progress fits better here.
While both phrases describe ongoing action, the nuance lies in how structured that action is.
Historical Usage: Tracing the Roots of ‘In Process’ and ‘In Progress’
The words may sound modern, but their roots stretch back centuries.
‘Process’
- Originates from Latin processus, meaning “a going forward” or “advancement.”
- First used in English around the 14th century, often in legal or scientific contexts.
- Implies a structured series of steps with a defined outcome.
‘Progress’
- From Latin progressus, meaning “an advance.”
- By the 15th century, progress evolved to describe movement or development in a broader, more general sense.
Fun Fact:
In medieval English courts, “in process” often referred to legal proceedings, while “in progress” was more common in descriptions of royal tours and public events.
The Common Choice: Why ‘In Progress’ Prevails in Modern Usage
Take a look at most modern content—from tech startups to academic reports—and you’ll spot a trend:
“In progress” dominates.
Why?
- It sounds more natural in casual and professional settings.
- It carries fewer technical connotations, making it more accessible to general audiences.
- It aligns with project management language, like “project in progress” or “work in progress.”
Google Trends Snapshot:
Over the last decade, “in progress” has consistently outperformed “in process” in global search interest.
Context Matters: When to Prefer ‘In Progress’ Over ‘In Process’
Using the wrong phrase won’t always confuse your reader, but it could make your writing sound awkward—or worse, incorrect in a business setting.
Use “In Progress” when:
- Talking about general development or ongoing tasks.
- Describing work with no fixed structure or path.
- Referring to something creative, academic, or project-based.
Examples:
- “The website redesign is in progress.”
- “Negotiations are in progress between the two firms.”
Use “In Process” when:
- Referring to mechanical, transactional, or procedural steps.
- Talking about systematic workflows—especially in business or legal contexts.
Examples:
- “The refund is in process.”
- “This claim is in process and awaiting final approval.”
The Role of ‘In Progress’ in Contemporary Language
“In progress” has become the default choice in most conversations and writing. It feels natural, flexible, and clear.
In Tech and Agile Teams:
- “Sprint in progress”
- “Deployment in progress”
In Academia:
- “Research in progress”
- “Thesis in progress”
In Art & Design:
- “Work in progress” (WIP) is a standard term.
This phrase has also become a part of motivational language:
“Progress, not perfection.”
It’s familiar, friendly, and productive—perfect for modern communication.
Navigating Professional Contexts: Work ‘In Process’ vs. Work ‘In Progress’
Here’s where it gets a bit more technical. In industries like manufacturing, finance, and law, “work in process” and “work in progress” are not interchangeable.
Breakdown:
| Term | Industry | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Work in Process | Manufacturing | Products that are partially completed, often in a production line |
| Work in Progress | Creative/General | Ongoing work not yet finalized, especially in design or development |
Accounting Example:
- A car being assembled is work in process.
- A novel being written is work in progress.
Industry-Specific Terminology: Understanding the Distinctions in Business
Each industry adopts its own preferred terminology. Let’s break down where each phrase shines:
Manufacturing:
- In Process: Refers to materials or products currently moving through the production chain.
- Used in inventory management and quality assurance.
Customer Service:
- “Your request is in process” implies it’s being handled step-by-step.
- “Your issue is in progress” could feel vague or noncommittal.
Software Development:
- Agile and Scrum teams use “In Progress” to indicate items on a sprint board.
- Tools like Jira or Trello default to columns like To Do → In Progress → Done.
Legal:
- “Case in process” is more formal and procedural.
- “Discussions in progress” softens the tone and broadens scope.
Grammatical Considerations: Crafting Correct Sentences with Each Phrase
Let’s go practical for a moment. You need more than theory—you need solid grammar application.
Sentence Construction:
- In progress = Used as predicate adjectives after to be verbs.
- “The project is in progress.”
- In process = Often follows passive voice.
- “The application is in process.” (vs. “The application is being processed.”)
Verb + Phrase Examples:
| Phrase | Correct Usage |
|---|---|
| Is in progress | “The upgrade is in progress.” |
| Is in process | “The transaction is in process.” |
| Being processed | “Your refund is being processed.” (preferred over “in process” in casual usage) |
Tips for Remembering When to Use ‘In Process’ and ‘In Progress’
Struggling to keep them apart? These memory tricks can help.
Mnemonics:
- In Process = Procedural steps (P for Process, P for Procedure)
- In Progress = Gradual growth (G for Growth, G for General motion)
Quick Test:
Ask yourself—Is it a system of steps or general activity?
If steps → In Process
If activity → In Progress
❓ 6 FAQs
Is “in process” the same as “in progress”?
Not exactly. “In process” implies a structured sequence of steps, while “in progress” refers to general ongoing activity. They overlap slightly, but context determines correctness.
When should I use “in process”?
Use “in process” for procedural or transactional contexts—like legal cases, manufacturing steps, or business workflows. Example: “Your application is in process.”
Is “in progress” more common than “in process”?
Yes. “In progress” is more frequently used, especially in creative, academic, and casual settings, because it sounds more natural and less technical.
What does ‘work in progress’ mean?
It means a task or project that’s currently underway but not yet finished. It’s common in design, writing, software development, and other creative fields.
Can I say ‘in progress’ for a refund?
It’s better to say “in process” for structured actions like refunds or payments, as it implies the steps are actively being taken.
How do I know which phrase to use?
Use this rule: If it’s a defined process or workflow, say “in process.” If it’s general ongoing development, say “in progress.”
Conclusion: Embracing the Subtleties of English Phrasing
English is full of phrases that look alike but carry entirely different meanings depending on context. In process and in progress might seem like harmless variations, but their correct usage can signal professionalism, clarity, and attention to detail.
Whether you’re managing a creative project, filing paperwork, or writing a customer email, choosing the right phrase adds polish to your language—and ensures your message lands just right.
Next time you’re stuck between “in process” and “in progress,” pause and ask: Is it a path or a project? A system or a situation?
Now you know the difference. Use it with confidence.
