Browse all

look ahead

B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To think about what is coming in the future, or to look in the direction you are going.

Literal meaning: To physically direct your gaze forward, in the direction of travel or movement.

Meanings

1 B1 neutral

To think about the future and consider what is likely to happen or what needs to be done.

"Looking ahead, the company plans to expand into three new markets by 2026."

Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 neutral

To direct your eyes in the forward direction, particularly while driving or moving.

"Keep looking ahead when you drive — don't get distracted by what's happening on the sides."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Used both literally (to direct your eyes forward) and figuratively (to consider the future). The figurative sense is very common in business, politics, and personal development contexts. Often used in the phrase 'looking ahead...' to introduce discussion of future plans.

Commonly used with

future next year planning strategy career challenges

Forms

Base
look ahead
I/you/we/they
3rd person
looks ahead
he/she/it
Past simple
looked ahead
yesterday
Past participle
looked ahead
have + pp
-ing form
looking ahead
continuous

Understand "look ahead" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "look ahead" on Looplines