Difference Between Progress and Development

Progress vs Development

Progress and Development are two words that are easily confused due to the closeness in their meanings. Strictly speaking there is some difference between the two words.

One of the main differences between progress and development is that the word ‘progress’ gives the extra idea of ‘movement’. On the other hand the word ‘development’ does not give the extra idea of ‘movement’.

Hence progress is a forward or onward movement towards a destination. Development does not imply onward movement towards a destination. Sometimes the word ‘progress’ indicates a kind of advance towards completion. It indicates betterment and improvement too. ‘He has shown no progress in his health’ would mean that his health showed no improvement at all.

Sometimes the word ‘progress’ gives the additional sense of ‘continue’ as in the sentence ‘The argument is progressing’. On the other hand development consists in the act or an instance of growth or the process of being grown. Development always indicates a stage of growth or advancement. It relates to an event or a circumstance.

The word ‘development’ is used in other senses too as in the sentences ‘The photograph was later developed’ and ‘The particular area of land developed in recent years’. In both these sentences the word ‘development’ conveys extra sense. In the first sentence you get the idea of ‘processed’. The photograph was later processed.

In the second sentence you get the idea of ‘advanced in facilities and amenities’. The particular area of land advanced in amenities in recent years.

The word ‘development’ sometimes is used in the sense of ‘something made or that became bigger or fuller or more elaborate or systematic. ‘The village developed rapidly’ gives the idea that the village became fuller and systematic in its make-up. The two words, namely, ‘progress’ and ‘development’ should be used with precision.