WordGarden.ioahead
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /əhˈɛd/
US
- /əˈhɛd/
Meanings
Adverb
further forward or in front along a route or direction
before a planned time or deadline; in advance
in the coming future or at a later point from now
Adjective
in a leading position or with a higher score, amount, or rank
Beyond the definition
"Ahead" describes a position that's further forward than where you are now, like the path stretching ahead of you on a hike. But it's more than just location! It can also mean before something happens—like when you "think ahead"—or to be in a better position, as in, "Our team is three points ahead in the standings."
Think of a race: the runner who's ahead is winning, moving forward, and leading the pack. Or imagine planning a trip; you need to book your flights well ahead of time to get the best prices. It's about progress, position, and preparation. You can even use the phrase "go ahead" to mean proceed or start!
"Ahead" is a versatile little word that describes both physical location and progression in time or status. Primarily, it indicates a position further forward in space: "The lighthouse was visible far ahead on the coast." It's what lies before you, the direction of travel, or the part of something that's furthest along.
But "ahead" isn't limited to just where things are. It also describes being before a certain point in time, such as, "We need to plan ahead for the winter months." This implies foresight and preparation. It can also indicate superiority or advancement: "Our company is well ahead of its competitors in terms of innovation."
You'll often encounter "ahead" used in phrases like "straight ahead" (meaning directly forward) or "get ahead" (describing progress relative to others). As part of a phrase, "go ahead" is a common expression of permission or encouragement: "Go ahead and start without me." It can also mean to send something in advance: "I sent the documents ahead of our meeting."
So whether you're charting a course, making plans, or simply describing where something lies, "ahead" signifies forward movement, anticipation, and being in a leading position.
Examples
- 1
Physical location
The bus stop is just ahead.
- 2
Driving
Keep your eyes on the road ahead.
- 3
Sports score
Our team was already ten points ahead by halftime.
- 4
Line order
There are still three people ahead of us in line.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Early completion
We finished the project two weeks ahead of schedule.
- Phraseahead of schedule
earlier than planned
- 6
Travel planning
Try to plan ahead when you travel during the holidays.
- 7
Preparation advantage
He always seems to be one step ahead of everyone else.
- Patternone step ahead of + person/group
better prepared than them
- 8
Permission
“Can I ask something?” “Go ahead.”
- Phrasego ahead
start speaking or do it
- 9
Future outlook
Looking ahead, the company expects sales to improve next year.
- Phraselooking ahead
thinking about the future
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- aheadadjectiveadverb