Synonyms of ahead

ahead 1 of 2

adverb

ə-ˈhed 

1

as in earlier

so as to precede something in order of time

call ahead for reservations

Synonyms & Similar Words

• earlier
• before
• already
• early
• beforehand
• previously
• now
• in advance
• anteriorly
• shortly
• preliminarily
• afore
• soon
• first
• formerly
• antecedently
• prematurely
• first off
• before long
• a priori
• presently
• erelong

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• later
• afterward
• after
• behind
• next
• subsequently
• by and by

2

as in forward

toward a point ahead in space or time

sent me ahead to get a place in the check-out line while she went to get the eggs and milk

Synonyms & Similar Words

• forward
• onward
• on
• forth

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• backward

3

as in along

toward or at a point lying in advance in space or time

the line moved ahead at a snail's pace

Synonyms & Similar Words

• forward
• along
• forwards
• onward
• forth
• on
• before
• fore
• frontward

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• back
• behind
• backward
• rearward

ahead

2 of 2

adjective

as in early

Related Words

• early
• prior
• previous
• preceding
• former
• fundamental
• basic
• preparing
• elementary
• warning
• introducing
• beginning
• preliminary
• premonitory
• preparatory
• readying
• prefacing
• preparative
• introductory
• precursory
• prelusive
• prefatory
• prelim
• primary

Dissimilar Words

• following
• subsequent
• after
• behind

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of ahead

Adverb

Jiang’s era saw China’s economy charge ahead and open up to the world, culminating with the country joining the World Trade Organization – with US support – in 2001. — Sylvie Zhuang, CNN Money, 17 Aug. 2026

All of that and more makes for an enticing season ahead, and a lot to wonder about, with the 2026 Chiefs … and their capacity to add more luster to Arrowhead’s legacy in its twilight years. — Kansas City Star, 16 Aug. 2026

Asked afterward whether the clash with France and the controversy with Turk changed his assessment of the challenge ahead, Bartos suggested the real battle had barely begun. — Bethany Mandel, The Washington Examiner, 16 Aug. 2026

Unbeaten in all competitions this season when scoring first (15-0-2), LAFC dropped to 0-6-1 in MLS when opponents jumped ahead. — Josh Gross, Daily News, 16 Aug. 2026

The rookie crushed a 449-foot, two-run home run to center field to put the Cardinals ahead 3-0 in the first inning. — Andy Martinez, Chicago Tribune, 16 Aug. 2026

Although Connecticut still has major challenges ahead the governor recognizes that property tax and housing reforms are at the top of the list. — Kevin McNabola, Hartford Courant, 16 Aug. 2026

Temperatures will largely stay near or slightly below normal for the week ahead. — Trey Fulbright, CBS News, 16 Aug. 2026

After Jake Burger hit a solo home run in the second to put the Rangers ahead, Butler responded with a 394-footer that wrapped around the right-field pole to give the A's the lead. — ABC News, 16 Aug. 2026

Adjective

For a make ahead option, assemble the casserole up to 1 day before baking. — Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2026

If For All Mankind’s early seasons laid out an optimistic fantasy of what space travel could be, scientific advancement and social progress sweeping ahead hand in hand, Star City posits a much darker vision, and arguably one much more in keeping with our own current national mood. — Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 28 May 2026

With only seven ingredients (one of which is deli ham) and only 20 minutes of hands-on cooking required, this is our go-to make ahead breakfast that instantly makes mornings a little brighter. — Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 28 Apr. 2026

Choose your ski resort and go on their website to find buy ahead deals. — Moira McCarthy, Boston Herald, 11 Feb. 2026

As for these ahead-of-schedule Spurs? — Mike Finger, San Antonio Express-News, 5 Feb. 2026

Phrases Containing ahead

• ahead of
• full speed ahead
• full steam ahead
• get ahead