onward
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈɔːn.wəd/
KK: /ˈɑnˌwərd/
adjective
Definition
Moving or progressing forward in space or time.
Example
The team decided to move onward despite the challenges they faced.
Conversation
I think we should keep moving onward with our plans.
I agree! It feels good to make progress.
Yeah, staying onward is the key to achieving our goals.
Exactly! Let’s not look back now.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
forward
ahead
progressive
Antonyms
backward
retreating
regressive
adverb
Definition
In a direction that moves ahead in space or time; moving forward.
Example
The team decided to move onward despite the challenges they faced.
Conversation
Are you ready to move onward with our plans for the weekend?
Absolutely! I can't wait to see what we come up with.
Let's make sure we keep pushing onward and stay excited about it.
Root Explanation
Onward → It is formed from "on" (from Old English "on", meaning in or upon) and "ward" (from Old English "weard", meaning toward or in the direction of). The word "onward" means moving in the direction of or toward a point or goal.
Memory Tip
Think of moving 'in' a direction ('on') and 'toward' something ('ward') — that's how onward means to move forward.
Visually Confused Words
zionward
townward
mornward
moonward
downward
toward
nonwar
inward