To make rapid, determined progress, especially despite difficulties or obstacles.
Keep going forward with energy and determination, even when it's difficult.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To make steady, vigorous progress toward a goal, especially despite challenges.
"Despite the budget cuts, the team decided to forge ahead with the new product launch."
We must forge ahead with the task of ensuring that every American has a chance to get ahead.
— Barack Obama, widely attributed in speeches circa 2010–2012
To move rapidly ahead of others in a race or competition.
"The lead runner forged ahead in the final lap to win the race."
To forge (push powerfully) in a forward direction.
Keep going forward with energy and determination, even when it's difficult.
Common in business, political, and motivational contexts. The metaphor comes from a forge (metalworking), suggesting the hard, hot work needed to shape something — or from 'forging ahead' in the sense of moving like a ship that forces its way through water.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "forge ahead" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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