up-front

1 of 2

adjective

ˌəp-ˈfrənt How to pronounce up-front (audio)
ˈəp-ˌfrənt
: being or coming in or at the front: such as
a(1)
(2)
: being in a conspicuous or leading position
b
: paid or payable in advance
c
: playing in a front line (as in football)

up front

2 of 2

adverb

1
: in or at the front
2
: in advance
3
: in an up-front manner : frankly, forthrightly

Examples of up-front in a Sentence

Adjective some hurt feelings could have been spared if he'd been more up-front about whom he was inviting to the party
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
The value of up-front deductions against taxes is no more than the fees our investment instruments charge. Brian Domitrovic, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 This reduces the ability to recoup up-front AI investments, particularly when there’s little client lock-in, no network effects, and no moat. PolyAI chose to remain a software company, partnering with BPOs rather than acquiring them. Preston Fore, Fortune, 27 June 2025
Adverb
Following Keira Walsh’s injury in England’s second game against Denmark, the Lionesses went to a back three and put two up front: Hemp and Alessia Russo. Michael Cox, New York Times, 30 June 2025 According to his lawyer, Tatis received $2 million up front in exchange for 10% of future earnings. Alex Sherman, CNBC, 26 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for up-front

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1945, in the meaning defined above

Adverb

1937, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of up-front was in 1937

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Cite this Entry

“Up-front.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/up-front. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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