progressive love: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘progressive love’ mean?

The idiom progressive love refers to a growing, evolving or advancing affection or emotional attachment between two people. It suggests that love is not stagnant or fixed, but can change and develop over time.

Idiom Explorer

Evolving Affection

"Progressive love" is a phrase that is widely recognized and used in the English language. It refers to a type of affection or attachment that grows and develops over time. This means that the relationship starts off in a casual or friendly manner and gradually becomes more serious and committed. The emotions and feelings involved become more intense and profound as the connection deepens. The concept of "progressive love" is based on the idea of gradual advancement and development.

The usage of "progressive love" is most commonly seen in the context of romantic relationships. It describes the journey of love, starting from a simple connection and blossoming into a stronger and more meaningful partnership. The phrase emphasizes the fact that love is not static but evolves and unfolds over time. It highlights the importance of nurturing and cultivating a relationship to ensure its growth and longevity.

However, "progressive love" is not limited to just romantic relationships. It can also be applied to other types of connections, such as friendships and familial bonds. In these instances, the idiom conveys the idea that genuine relationships require time and effort to flourish. It recognizes that building a strong connection with someone is a gradual process that requires patience and commitment.

Progressive love knows no boundaries.

The origin of the phrase "progressive love" is not definitively known, but it is likely rooted in the belief that love is a journey rather than a destination. It reflects the understanding that relationships evolve and become stronger as individuals grow closer. This aligns with the broader cultural ideas surrounding the concept of love as a continuous process of growth and change.

When we speak of love as "growing on" someone, we are referring to the notion of "progressive love." It means that over time, a person's affection and attachment towards another person gradually increase. This idiomatic expression captures the idea that love is not immediate, but rather something that develops and deepens over time. It suggests that sometimes, the true depth of someone's feelings only becomes apparent after spending more time together.

Similarly, "progressive love" is reminiscent of the concept of "first love." First love is often described as a unique and memorable experience, marked by a sense of innocence and discovery. It represents the beginning of a person's romantic journey and is often associated with a deep emotional connection. When we talk about "progressive love," we acknowledge that first love is just the starting point and that love can continue to evolve and grow beyond that initial experience.

Whether applied to romantic relationships, friendships, or familial bonds, the idiom "progressive love" emphasizes the importance of investing time and effort into nurturing and developing genuine connections. It encapsulates the understanding that love is not a fixed state but rather a continuous journey of growth and development. This idiomatic expression serves as a reminder to cherish and foster relationships, as they have the potential to deepen and become even more profound over time.

Example usage

1. Despite their different backgrounds, Jack and Jill have a progressive love that grows stronger and more accepting with each passing day.

2. The novel explores the concept of progressive love by depicting a romantic relationship that challenges societal norms and promotes equality.

3. Our society needs to embrace a more progressive love in order to break down barriers and encourage understanding and empathy among individuals.

More "Romance" idioms