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Ahead Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ahead

[əˈhɛd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in front

In or toward the front; in advance.

Synonyms

forward, in advance, in front.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ahead

Similar to the previous 'ahead,' but focusing more on mental or strategic preparation.

  • Think ahead about what you will need for the trip.
  • Planning ahead can save you a lot of trouble.
in front

Best used when describing a physical location or position relative to another object or person.

  • He stood in front of the building.
  • She parked her car in front of the house.
forward

Commonly used in contexts involving direction, movement, or progression. It conveys a sense of motion towards a goal or the future.

  • Move forward and you'll see the sign.
  • We need to push forward with this project.
in advance

Used when indicating that something is done before a certain point in time, often to prepare or prevent problems.

  • Please let us know in advance if you can't attend.
  • You must book your tickets in advance.

Examples of usage

  • She saw a man walking ahead of her.
  • The car ahead was going too slow for my liking.
Context #2 | Adjective

leading

Having a lead or advantage in a race or competition.

Synonyms

ahead of the competition, in the lead, leading.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ahead

Generally used to describe being in front or in advance in time, space, or position.

  • He looked ahead and saw the finish line.
  • We need to plan ahead for the trip.
leading

Can describe being the most important or successful in a particular field or at the front in a race or competition. Sometimes also used for negative connotations, such as leading someone astray.

  • They are the leading company in renewable energy.
  • He was leading the group through the forest.
  • He is leading his followers down a dangerous path.
in the lead

Typically used in competitive settings, like sports or races, to describe being first or most advanced.

  • She is currently in the lead in the marathon.
  • Our team is in the lead after the first half.
ahead of the competition

Used specifically to describe being in a better or more advanced position compared to others, often in business or sports.

  • Our new marketing strategy has put us ahead of the competition.
  • With their innovative products, they are consistently ahead of the competition.

Examples of usage

  • The team was ahead by three points.
  • She was ahead in the polls.
Context #3 | Noun

future

The time or distance by which one person or thing is ahead of another.

Synonyms

advantage, edge, lead.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ahead

Use to indicate progress or position in front of others, often in a race or competitive situation.

  • She is three steps ahead in the project timeline.
  • The runner was far ahead of the rest of the pack.
lead

Means to be in the first position or to guide others, often in a race or direction sense.

  • He took the lead early in the race and never looked back.
  • She leads the team with confidence and expertise.
advantage

Used to indicate a favorable or superior position, often in a competitive environment

  • Her bilingual skills give her an advantage in the job market.
  • They had the home-field advantage during the game.
edge

Implies a slight but noticeable lead or superiority, often temporary or in a competitive context.

  • The new feature gives the product an edge over competitors.
  • He had the edge in the debate because of his experience.

Examples of usage

  • He finished with an hour and a half ahead of the next runner.
  • The company is years ahead of its competitors in technology.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Thinking ahead can improve decision-making, as it involves planning and foresight.
  • Individuals who tend to look ahead are often seen as proactive, which can lead to a greater sense of control in life.
  • Anticipatory thinking helps in managing anxiety, as it allows people to prepare for future challenges.

Navigation and Travel

  • The concept of being 'ahead' is vital in navigation, with maps often indicating destinations that lie ahead.
  • In aviation, pilots frequently use the term when discussing their flight path to denote altitude and forward position.
  • Driving directions often focus on 'keeping ahead' by anticipating turns and exits to ensure a smooth journey.

Cultural References

  • 'Ahead of its time' is a common phrase used in various contexts, meaning something is innovative before it becomes mainstream.
  • In sports, teams often strive to be ahead of their competition to achieve victory.
  • In literature, characters often face choices that determine whether they move ahead or fall behind in their journeys.

Technology

  • In tech, staying ahead of the trends can lead to innovation and competitive advantages.
  • Software updates often promise to keep features ahead of user needs, improving efficiency and enjoyment.
  • The phrase 'looking ahead' is essential in technology, especially regarding future advancements and trends.

Origin of 'ahead'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'ahead' comes from the Old English 'on heafod,' meaning 'on the head' or 'in front.'
  • It has roots in Middle English as 'aheaden,' which conveyed the concept of being in front.
  • The term's usage has evolved from a physical sense to include metaphorical meanings like future progress.

The word 'ahead' originated in Middle English, from 'on' (in) and 'head' (the front part of the body). It has been used since the 14th century to indicate a position in front or in advance of something or someone. Over time, 'ahead' has evolved to also mean having a lead or advantage in various contexts, such as in races or competitions. Today, it is a common adverb, adjective, and noun used in everyday language.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,073, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.