Word
abreast of
Definition
prepositional phrase. to stay informed about the latest news or changes in a specific subject. You use this when you want to show you are keeping up with new information.
prepositional phrase. to remain current with developments or information regarding a particular field or situation. It functions as a prepositional phrase, typically following the verbs 'keep' or 'stay'.
Examples
“I read the news to stay abreast of local events.”
“It is difficult for doctors to stay abreast of all the new medical research published every month.”
“The regulatory department must remain abreast of shifting international trade laws to ensure the company maintains its compliance status across all global markets.”
Examples
simple
“I read the news to stay abreast of local events.”
contextual
“It is difficult for doctors to stay abreast of all the new medical research published every month.”
complex
“The regulatory department must remain abreast of shifting international trade laws to ensure the company maintains its compliance status across all global markets.”
Usage
almost always follows the verbs 'keep' or 'stay' and is followed by the preposition 'of'.
Teaching tip
anchor the meaning by explaining the literal nautical origin: 'abreast' means side-by-side, so you are walking at the same speed as the news rather than falling behind.
Pitfall
He stays abreast with the news.
He stays abreast of the news.
the phrase requires the preposition 'of' rather than 'with' or 'about'.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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