As a Noun: 1. The process of gradually getting better or nearer to achieving something or completing something; an improvement in circumstances. English = progress. 2. The movement from a less important to a more important job in an organisation. English = promotion. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To gradually get better or nearer to achieving something or completing something; to improve circumstances. English = progress. 2. To give someone a more important job in an organisation. English = promote. 3. To progress to a more important job in an organisation. English = (be) promoted, work your way up, get on, get ahead.