What are the definitions of “forge ahead”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Make a lot of progress in a short time.
We've been FORGING AHEAD with the work and should be finished well before the deadline.
- 2Move forwards very quickly.
She FORGED AHEAD of the other runners and won.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “forge ahead”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb forge ahead is to make a lot of progress in a short time or to move forward quickly. It is often used to describe progress in work, projects, or personal goals.
What are the different verb forms of “forge ahead”?
| Root Verb | forge ahead |
| Third Person Singular Present | forges ahead |
| Present Participle | forging ahead |
| Simple Past | forged ahead |
| Past Participle | forged ahead |
Example
The team forged ahead with the project, making great progress.
Example
She forges ahead in her studies, always eager to learn more.
Example
They are forging ahead with their plans to expand the business.
Example
He forged ahead and completed the marathon in record time.
Example
The company forged ahead and became a market leader.
What kind of phrasal verb is “forge ahead”?
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
“forge ahead” 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
The construction crew forged ahead despite the bad weather.
Example
She forged ahead in her career, quickly climbing the corporate ladder.
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
“forge ahead” 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
The construction crew forged ahead despite the bad weather.
Example
She forged ahead in her career, quickly climbing the corporate ladder.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “forge ahead”?
Good things to know
Does “forge ahead” have an informal or formal tone?
Forge ahead is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is suitable for everyday conversations, as well as professional settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.