C1noun5K

Proceeding

UK /["/prəˈsiːdɪŋ/"]/US /["/prəˈsiːdɪŋ/"]/

Definition

the process of using a court to settle an argument or to deal with a complaint

In simple words: Moving forward or continuing with something.

Examples

  • **court/legal/judicial proceedings**
  • bankruptcy/divorce/extradition proceedings
  • There was enough evidence to bring **criminal proceedings** against her.
  • The EU has started legal proceeedings against the country for its failure to implement the directive.
  • The Mayor will open the proceedings at the City Hall tomorrow.
  • We watched the proceedings from the balcony.
  • His paper is published in the new issue of the proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Usage notes

Often used in formal contexts, such as legal or technical discussions. Not usually used in casual conversations. Be careful not to confuse it with 'proceed', which is more common in everyday speech.

Grammar pattern

proceeding + object

Memory hint

Think of 'proceeding' as 'going forward,' like a train that's 'proceeding' down the tracks.

Collocations

  • legal proceeding
  • proceeding with caution
  • proceeding to the next step

Synonyms

  • continuation
  • process
  • progress
  • advancement

Antonyms

  • ceasing
  • stopping
  • halt

Common mistakes

  • Using 'proceeding' as a verb instead of a noun.
  • Confusing 'proceeding' with 'proceed' in sentence structure.
  • Using 'proceeding' in casual conversations where simpler terms like 'moving on' would be better.