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

Back in early June, before a game at Yankee Stadium, Tracy hinted at better times ahead. — Tyler Kepner, New York Times, 20 July 2026

When smoke levels are high, experts recommend avoiding anything that burns — candles, fireplaces, even gas stoves — so plan ahead with some meal prep. — Devi Shastri, Chicago Tribune, 19 July 2026

While Portland trailed by as little as three points in the middle of the third quarter, Minnesota took over the game, scoring 22 points to open the fourth ahead 75-60. — Anya Armentrout, Twin Cities, 19 July 2026

The climb became steeper as the summit loomed ahead, and the sun burned brighter. — John Blake, CNN Money, 19 July 2026

As Santa Margarita’s last pass at the South County Classic sailed into the hands of a Sierra Canyon defender, the outcome of the championship game and the challenge ahead for the Eagles became clear. — Dan Albano, Oc Register, 19 July 2026

Trailing 3-2 in the fourth, the Rays jumped ahead with three runs. — ABC News, 18 July 2026

Draft a short meeting agenda with key points, then talk through expectations with the person involved so the path ahead feels workable. — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 5 July 2026

Drivers traveling along California's scenic Highway 101 this summer will need to plan ahead after roadside rest areas in both directions of the highway closed because of a water shortage. — Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 5 July 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