What are the definitions of “come forward”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To offer help or information voluntarily.
If it was Kate or Greg they would have come forward at once when they saw him.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “come forward”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb come forward is to voluntarily offer help or information, especially in a difficult situation or when someone is in need. It often implies that the person was not previously involved or known to be involved.
What are the different verb forms of “come forward”?
| Root Verb | come forward |
| Third Person Singular Present | comes forward |
| Present Participle | coming forward |
| Simple Past | came forward |
| Past Participle | come forward |
Example
If you have any information about the crime, please come forward.
Example
She comes forward to help whenever someone is in need.
Example
Many people are coming forward to donate blood after the disaster.
Example
After the accident, several witnesses came forward to give their statements.
Example
Several people have come forward to offer assistance since the news broke.
What kind of phrasal verb is “come forward”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“come forward” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
He came forward to share his story.
Example
Several volunteers came forward to help with the cleanup.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“come forward” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
He came forward to share his story.
Example
Several volunteers came forward to help with the cleanup.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “come forward”?
Good things to know
Does “come forward” have an informal or formal tone?
Come forward is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal situations, such as legal proceedings or official statements.
