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I study English as a second language, and noticed that some collocations in my native language and English can differ.

I'm writing an essay and I want to translate one phrase into English correctly. Literally it is

Progress doesn't stay in one place.

Do native speakers say this?
What words should I change in the phrase?
Or you have your own equivalent?

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  • for better understanding: I mean that every century saw new technological advances
    – Emerald
    Commented Sep 24, 2016 at 17:40

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There is nothing wrong with your phrase

Progress doesn't stay in one place.

it is understandable and grammatically correct. Metaphorically it has implied "movement" which is characteristic of progress. All native speakers would understand it.

An alternative with similar meaning might be

Progress doesn't stand still.

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  • Thank you a lot) It seems to be the equivalent to the phrase in my native language)
    – Emerald
    Commented Sep 24, 2016 at 17:46
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You may use a common expression which I think is close to the meaning you want to suggest:

You can't stop progress

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    Also things and events can be shaped by the wheels of progress, generally considered to be beyond individual control.
    – user3169
    Commented Sep 24, 2016 at 17:42
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There aren't really any proverbs specifically about progress. The nearest that I can suggest is

Time and tide wait for no man Cambridge Dictionary

If this isn't what you are looking for, you could try here

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