English Reference
adverb · adjective · verb · noun

forward

adv. · adj. · v. · n.
US /ˈfɔɹwɝd/ UK /fˈɔːwəd/ for·ward UK spelling forwarded

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    adv.toward the front or in the direction you are moving.

    adv.in a direction toward the front or toward a destination.

    Simple

    She took a step forward to get a better look at the painting.

    In context

    The explorers pushed forward through the dense undergrowth, determined to reach the summit before the light failed.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    adv.toward a time in the future.

    adv.relating to or moving toward a future point in time.

    Simple

    From this day forward, we will work together as a team.

    In context

    Looking forward, the company must decide whether to invest in renewable energy or maintain its current infrastructure.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    adj.located at or near the front of something.

    adj.situated at or directed toward the front.

    Simple

    The forward cabin of the plane is usually quieter than the back.

    In context

    The forward observation deck offers a panoramic view of the coastline as the ship enters the harbor.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced Informal

    adj.behaving in a way that is too confident or lacks respect.

    adj.presumptuous, bold, or lacking in customary restraint.

    Simple

    I hope it's not too forward of me to ask for your phone number.

    In context

    His forward manner during the interview was interpreted by the panel as arrogance rather than confidence.

  5. 05 B1 Intermediate Computing

    v.to send a letter or email you received to another person.

    v.to redirect a received communication to a third party.

    Simple

    Could you forward that email to me so I can read the attachment?

    In context

    The secretary was instructed to forward all relevant correspondence to the legal department for further review.

  6. 06 C1 Advanced Formal

    v.to help something progress or develop.

    v.to promote the interests or progress of a cause or project.

    Simple

    The new law is intended to forward the cause of environmental protection.

    In context

    The diplomat worked tirelessly to forward the peace process despite significant opposition from both sides.

  7. 07 B1 Intermediate Sport

    n.a player in sports like football or basketball who plays near the front to score.

    n.an attacking player positioned near the opponent's goal or basket.

    Simple

    The team's star forward scored three goals in the final match.

    In context

    The coach decided to substitute the forward for a more defensive player to protect their narrow lead in the closing minutes.

  8. 08 C2 Proficiency Technical Finance

    n.an agreement to buy or sell something at a fixed price in the future.

    n.a non-standardized contract between two parties to buy or sell an asset at a specified future time at a price agreed upon today.

    Simple

    The company used a forward to lock in the price of oil for next year.

    In context

    Unlike futures, a forward is traded over-the-counter and carries a higher degree of counterparty risk for the involved institutions.

    forward contract

Usage forward to working

The emergency brakes went on the train and everything got thrown forward.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026

She remembers the women who came before her and the younger voices now carrying the songs forward.

Al Jazeera· 14 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Very common
Updated