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."
inseparable
look ahead
B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
To think about and prepare for the future, or to direct your gaze forward.
In plain English
To think about what is coming in the future, or to look in the direction you are going.
What does "look ahead" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To physically direct your gaze forward, in the direction of travel or movement.
Actually means
To think about what is coming in the future, or to look in the direction you are going.
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "look ahead"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
future next year planning strategy career challenges
How to conjugate "look ahead"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "look ahead" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "look ahead" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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