What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
advance
Example
The army advanced towards the enemy's stronghold. [advance: verb]
Example
She was able to advance her career by taking on new responsibilities. [advance: verb]
Example
The company provided an advance on his salary to help him pay for his expenses. [advance: noun]
proceed
Example
Please proceed to the next room for your appointment. [proceed: verb]
Example
We will proceed with the project as planned. [proceed: verb]
Example
The driver proceeded with caution through the intersection. [proceeded: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Proceed is more commonly used than advance in everyday language. Proceed is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while advance is less common and often associated with specific industries or fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between advance and proceed?
Advance can be more formal or technical, while proceed is more commonly used in informal and everyday contexts.
