Differences between carry forward and carry over

Carry forward and carry over are similar phrasal verbs that both refer to continuing something from one point to another. However, carry forward is used more for abstract concepts like ideas, plans, or progress, while carry over is used more for physical objects or tangible things like data, balance, or items.

Meanings and Definitions: carry forward vs carry over

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Carry forward

1Include a figure in a later calculation.
They CARRIED FORWARD their losses to the next financial year.
2Make something progress.
They hope the new management will be able to CARRY the project FORWARD.

Carry over

1Continue past a certain point.
The meeting CARRIED OVER into the afternoon because there was so much to talk about.

Usage Examples: carry forward, carry over in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

carry forward

Example

The company decided to carry forward the unused budget to the next quarter.

Example

She carries forward the remaining vacation days to the next year.

carry over

Example

The meeting carried over into the afternoon.

Example

The discussion carries over to the next day.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Carry forward

build on

To develop or improve something by adding new ideas or information to it.

Example

We need to build on our previous success and come up with new strategies to expand our business.

continue with

To keep doing something that was started earlier or before.

Example

Despite the challenges, we decided to continue with our plan and see it through to the end.

proceed with

To move forward or advance with a plan or project.

Example

After careful consideration, we decided to proceed with the merger and start the negotiation process.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Carry over

transfer

To move something from one place or person to another.

Example

I need to transfer the files from my old computer to the new one before I can start working.

roll over

To extend or continue something to a later time or period.

Example

If you don't use all your vacation days this year, you can roll them over to the next year.

pass on

To give or transfer something to someone else.

Example

I'm going to pass on this project to my colleague since I won't have enough time to work on it.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “carry”

Phrasal Verbs with “forward”

Phrasal Verbs with “over”

Differences in carry forward vs carry over: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: carry forward or carry over?

Both carry forward and carry over are commonly used in everyday conversation, but carry over is slightly more common. This is because it's used in various contexts such as finance, sports, and transportation, where the idea of moving something from one place to another is prevalent. Carry forward is also used frequently but mainly in academic or professional settings.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of carry forward and carry over

Carry forward and carry over are both neutral and can be used in formal or informal situations. However, carry forward is more formal than carry over since it's often used in business or academic contexts to describe the progress or continuation of a project or plan.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of carry forward and carry over

The tone of carry forward and carry over can differ based on context. Carry forward often carries a positive or optimistic tone when related to progress or development, while carry over typically has a practical and functional tone, especially when referring to transferring data or items.

carry forward & carry over: Synonyms and Antonyms

Carry forward

Synonyms

Antonyms

reverse
retract
withdraw
regress
halt
carry back
move backward

Carry over

Synonyms

Antonyms

end
cease
stop
halt
terminate
conclude
finish