ɒn ðə raɪt træk
Travel
neutral
beginner
- Literally:
- traveling along the correct railway track
What does "on the right track" mean?
making progress in the correct direction
Examples
- Your analysis isn't perfect yet, but you're on the right track.
- The economy seems to be on the right track after years of recession.
- If you keep studying like this, you're on the right track.
Origin
From railway terminology. Figurative use widespread in the 19th century.
How to use it
Used to encourage someone or confirm their approach is correct.
Similar expressions
heading in the right direction
on course
Opposites
on the wrong track
off course
Related idioms
- hit the road
To leave or depart on a journey
- in the same boat
In the same difficult situation as someone else
- miss the boat
To miss an opportunity
- go the extra mile
to make more effort than is expected or required
- a long way to go
much more work or progress is needed before completion
- that ship has sailed
The opportunity has passed
Use it in a practice answer
Try "on the right track" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.