1
as in to lend
to give to another for temporary use with the understanding that it or a like thing will be returned
advanced her some cash with the understanding that the amount would be deducted from her first paycheck
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to promote
to help the growth or development of
great thinkers who did much to advance modern science
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in to progress
to move forward along a course
as the technology advances, electronic devices keep getting smaller and smarter
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
4
as in to elevate
to move higher in rank or position
within six months was advanced to the position of head waiter, to the dismay of the waiters who had been there much longer
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
5
as in to suggest
to set before the mind for consideration
let me explain my reasons for advancing this proposal
Synonyms & Similar Words
1
as in progress
forward movement in time or place
during her long convalescence, the housebound woman was barely aware of the advance of the seasons
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in improvement
an instance of notable progress in the development of knowledge, technology, or skill
under her new teacher, the aspiring violinist has made noticeable advances in her technique in just a few weeks
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in early
Related Words
Dissimilar Words
Cite this Entry
“Advance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/advance. Accessed 8 Sep. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
