adv
ahead
uh-HEHD
adv
1
In front, or in the direction someone is facing or moving.
"The finish line was just ahead."
"Look ahead before crossing the road."
2
More advanced or in a better position than others.
"The team is ahead by ten points."
3
In the future, or before something happens.
"We need to plan ahead for the holiday rush."
How to Use Ahead
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishIn front, further along, or further advanced — in space, time, or progress.
Common pairings
go ahead
plan ahead
stay ahead
ahead of schedule
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The finish line was just _____.
Etymology
Formed from "a-" plus "head" — originally a nautical term meaning "beyond the front of a ship," later used generally to mean "in front."