adv
Common
forwards
FAW-wuhdz
Forwards (adv) means Toward the front, or ahead in time or progress — used the same way as "forward". Example: “He leaned forwards to hear her better.”
adv
1
Toward the front, or ahead in time or progress — used the same way as "forward".
"He leaned forwards to hear her better."
"The queue slowly shuffled forwards until we reached the ticket desk."
"Looking forwards, the team hopes to finish the project by spring."
How to use forwards
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAnother way of saying "forward" as a direction word, common especially in British English.
UK vs US
British English favors "forwards" for the adverb; American English tends to use "forward" in both roles.
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Word forms
- Comparative
- further forwards, farther forwards
- Superlative
- furthest forwards, farthest forwards
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He leaned _____ to hear her better.
Etymology
From forward plus the adverbial -s ending.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “forwards” mean?
The word “forwards” means toward the front, or ahead in time or progress — used the same way as "forward". In plain terms, another way of saying "forward" as a direction word, common especially in British English.
How do you pronounce “forwards”?
“Forwards” is pronounced FAW-wuhdz (/ˈfɔɹwɚdz/ in IPA).
How do you use “forwards” in a sentence?
Here is “forwards” used in a sentence: “He leaned forwards to hear her better.”
What part of speech is “forwards”?
“Forwards” is an adverb.
Is “forwards” a common word?
“Forwards” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between forwards and forward?
Forwards and forward are largely interchangeable as adverbs meaning toward the front or ahead in time or progress, as in "move forwards" or "move forward." In American English, forward is strongly preferred, while forwards is more common in British English.
Can forwards be used as an adjective or noun?
No, forwards functions only as an adverb. The related word forward can also work as an adjective (a forward motion) or a verb (to forward an email), but forwards cannot fill those roles.
Is it correct to say backwards and forwards?
Yes, backwards and forwards is a common and correct expression, especially in British English, describing movement in both directions or repeated back-and-forth motion.
