Forefront: meaning, definitions and examples

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forefront

[ˈfɔːrˌfrʌnt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

at the

The foremost part or position in a trend or movement.

Synonyms

leading edge, vanguard.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
forefront	This is likely a duplication. Refer to the above entry for context and examples. Our company is at the forefront of renewable energy research
vanguard	This word often describes people or groups who are leaders or pioneers in a movement or development. It has a more figurative and slightly formal tone. Artists in the 1960s were the vanguard of the modern art movement
leading edge	This term is best used to emphasize that someone or something is at the most advanced or innovative stage in a particular field. It's more specific to innovation and cutting-edge technology. The new smartphone features leading edge technology that promises faster performance

Word

Description / Examples

forefront

This is likely a duplication. Refer to the above entry for context and examples.

Our company is at the forefront of renewable energy research

vanguard

This word often describes people or groups who are leaders or pioneers in a movement or development. It has a more figurative and slightly formal tone.

Artists in the 1960s were the vanguard of the modern art movement

leading edge

This term is best used to emphasize that someone or something is at the most advanced or innovative stage in a particular field. It's more specific to innovation and cutting-edge technology.

The new smartphone features leading edge technology that promises faster performance

Examples of usage

At the forefront of technological innovation.
She is at the forefront of the fight for equality.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in the

The leading or most important position or place.

Synonyms

fore, front line.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
forefront	This word is often used to describe a leading position in various contexts, such as an industry, movement, or field of study. It suggests being at the cutting edge or leading the way. She is at the forefront of cancer research. The company is at the forefront of technological innovation.
front line	This phrase is commonly used to describe a literal or metaphorical advanced position where direct action or engagement occurs, such as in military contexts, healthcare, or emergency services. The soldiers on the front line faced heavy fire. Nurses are on the front line in the fight against the pandemic.
fore	This term is rarely used on its own in modern English and often appears in compound words or phrases. Historically, it's a part of terms like 'forefront' or 'forecourt' and in nautical terms. The foredeck of the ship was crowded with passengers. He brought the issue to the fore during the meeting.

Word

Description / Examples

forefront

This word is often used to describe a leading position in various contexts, such as an industry, movement, or field of study. It suggests being at the cutting edge or leading the way.

She is at the forefront of cancer research.
The company is at the forefront of technological innovation.

front line

This phrase is commonly used to describe a literal or metaphorical advanced position where direct action or engagement occurs, such as in military contexts, healthcare, or emergency services.

The soldiers on the front line faced heavy fire.
Nurses are on the front line in the fight against the pandemic.

fore

This term is rarely used on its own in modern English and often appears in compound words or phrases. Historically, it's a part of terms like 'forefront' or 'forecourt' and in nautical terms.

The foredeck of the ship was crowded with passengers.
He brought the issue to the fore during the meeting.

Examples of usage

He is in the forefront of the battle against climate change.
The company is in the forefront of the industry.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word combines 'fore-' meaning 'in front of' and 'front,' which comes from the Old French 'front' meaning 'forehead' or 'face'.
It has been used in English since the 14th century, initially referring to the forefront of battle or action.
The prefix 'fore-' is also prevalent in other words like 'foresee' and 'foreboding,' tying back to the concept of anticipation.

Cultural Significance

In modern contexts, being at the forefront often relates to leadership in technology, social movements, or environmental initiatives.
In pop culture, characters that are depicted as leaders or pioneers are frequently described as being at the forefront of their respective narratives.
The phrase 'the forefront of change' is often used to highlight individuals or organizations championing progressive ideas.

Psychology

Individuals at the forefront of their fields often experience a sense of responsibility that can both inspire and burden them.
Research shows that people in leading positions are more likely to be visible role models, impacting the motivations of others.
Being at the forefront can lead to heightened stress levels but also a greater sense of achievement and fulfillment.

History

Historically, the term was used to describe leaders or groups leading significant social changes, such as civil rights movements.
During World War I and II, soldiers fighting at the forefront faced the most danger, highlighting the term's ties to bravery and sacrifice.
Innovators like Thomas Edison and Marie Curie were often at the forefront of scientific discoveries, changing entire industries.

Literature

In literature, protagonists are often placed at the forefront of conflict, driving the story's progression.
The term can be seen in many literary works as a metaphor for struggle and growth, representing characters' journeys toward truth or justice.
Notable authors like Charles Dickens and George Orwell wrote about characters who found themselves at the forefront of societal challenges.

Translations

Translations of the word "forefront" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vanguarda

🇮🇳 अग्रणी

🇩🇪 Vordergrund

🇮🇩 garis depan

🇺🇦 передовий край

🇵🇱 czołówka

🇯🇵 最前線

🇫🇷 avant-garde

🇪🇸 vanguardia

🇹🇷 ön sıra

🇰🇷 최전선

🇸🇦 طليعة

🇨🇿 přední linie

🇸🇰 predná línia

🇨🇳 前沿

🇸🇮 prva linija

🇮🇸 fremsta röð

🇰🇿 алдыңғы шеп

🇬🇪 წინა ხაზი

🇦🇿 ön cəbhə

🇲🇽 vanguardia

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,989, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
12986 attractiveness
12987 crystallized
12988 veiled
12989 forefront
12990 subsidence
12991 corollary
12992 masculinity
...