make advances—
1. make progress:
- Since the introduction of radiography into surgery, many advances have been made in its application.
2. (Military) move forward on the enemy position:
- When the Red Army made advances into Germany, Goering moved his headquarters to Berchesgaden.
3. approach a woman in the hope of a romantic relationship:
- I’d be glad if you’d stop making advances to my daughter.
make an advance—
1. = make advances 1:
- Navidi has made an advance in this area by identifying the components needed to model the health effects of air pollution.
2. = make advances 2:
- Ascertain the position and strength of an enemy before making an advance.