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Code & Deliverynoun · /prəˈɡresɪv web æp/

progressive web app

In simple English

Progressive web apps combine the best features of web and mobile applications. They use service workers to cache content, allowing users to access the app offline or on slow networks. PWAs can be accessed through a browser URL but also installed as standalone apps on devices without requiring app store distribution. In tech companies, PWAs are valued because they reduce development costs compared to building separate native apps for iOS and Android, while still providing a native-like user experience with push notifications, background sync, and home screen installation. Teams often choose PWAs for cross-platform delivery when native app performance is not critical or when rapid deployment is needed.

What is a progressive web app and how does it differ from regular websites and native apps?

At a glanceCEFR C1
Commonness4/5
Versatility4/5
FormalityCasualFormalNeutral
Spoken ↔ WrittenSpokenWrittenBoth
Directness ↔ DiplomaticDirectDiplomaticDirect
RegionUS and UK
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Say it like this

✓We are migrating our platform to a PWA architecture
✓The PWA delivers an excellent offline experience
✓PWAs are gaining traction as an alternative to native apps

Real examples

in a standup

"We finished the service worker implementation for our PWA, so users can now access the app offline."

in a code review

"Make sure the PWA manifest file is properly configured with all required icons and metadata."

in a team meeting

"Building a PWA will allow us to reach users on both Android and iOS without maintaining separate codebases."

Don't say this

Handle with care. PWA is often confused with native apps or standard web applications. It is not the same as a responsive website—it requires service workers and specific capabilities.

✕We built a progressive web app, so it works exactly like a native app.
✓We built a PWA that provides a native-like experience, but some advanced device features may not be available.— PWAs have limitations compared to native apps—not all device APIs are accessible through web technologies.
✕Our responsive website is a progressive web app.
✓Our responsive website includes PWA features such as service workers and offline caching.— Responsiveness alone does not make an app a PWA; it requires service workers, manifests, and installability.
✕We need to progressive web app our application.
✓We need to convert our application into a PWA or add PWA capabilities to our application.— PWA is a noun and technology approach, not a verb; you cannot progressive web app something.

Other forms

noun

progressive web app

"The progressive web app loads in under two seconds on slow networks."

noun

PWA

"Our PWA achieved 95% user satisfaction in the latest survey."

adjective

PWA-based

"The PWA-based solution reduced our deployment complexity significantly."

Often used with

build a PWACreate a progressive web app from scratch or add PWA features to an existing app.
PWA featuresSpecific capabilities like offline support, push notifications, and home screen installation.
PWA manifestThe JSON file that defines PWA metadata, icons, and display properties.
service workerThe JavaScript technology that enables PWAs to work offline and cache content.
installable PWAA PWA that meets all criteria to be installed as a standalone app on a device.

Similar words

web appBroader term; a web app is not necessarily progressive or installable.
hybrid appHybrid apps use web technologies but are wrapped in a native container; PWAs run directly in the browser.
installable web applicationMore descriptive but less commonly used in tech conversations.

Opposites

native appweb-only application

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Practice

Try it

4 quick exercises

Pick the most natural phrasing

1. Your manager asks what technology you recommend for a cross-platform mobile solution. What do you say?

Complete the sentence

2. We decided to develop a _______ to avoid building separate iOS and Android applications.

Spot the mistake

3. Which sentence uses progressive web app incorrectly?

Rewrite naturally

4. Rewrite in natural tech English: 'We want to make an app that works like a native app but is built with web technology and can be used without an app store.'

Questions

Quick poll

Have you said "progressive web app" in a standup this week?

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