abreast
/ə'brest/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adverb:
- Alongside each other, facing the same direction: Describes the position of two or more people or things moving or standing side-by-side on a parallel line.
- Keeping pace with, not falling behind: Used metaphorically to indicate staying level with or informed about something, such as developments or news.
Adjective (often used predicatively):
- Being up to date or informed: Being aware of the latest information or developments in a particular area.
Usage Examples
Adverb (Spatial):
- The soldiers marched three abreast down the wide avenue.
- We walked abreast along the beach, talking as we went.
Adverb/Adjective (Metaphorical):
- It's hard to keep abreast of all the changes in technology.
- She reads several journals to stay abreast of new research in her field.
Advanced Usage
- "abreast of": Informed about the latest developments in a particular subject.
- Managers must keep abreast of current market trends.
- "abreast with": An alternative to "abreast of," meaning keeping pace with something.
- He struggled to keep abreast with the rapid pace of the lecture.
Variants and Related Words
- Side by side: A common synonym for the spatial meaning of "abreast."
- Au courant (adj.): A French term adopted into English, meaning conversant with or informed about the latest developments.
- Up-to-date (adj.): Having the most recent information.
Synonyms
- Alongside: At the side of; next to.
- Informed: Having or showing knowledge of a particular subject or situation.
- Aware: Having knowledge or perception of a situation or fact.
Related Phrases
- Keep abreast: To make sure one stays informed about something.
- Subscribe to our newsletter to keep abreast of company announcements.
- Walk/ride/march abreast: To move forward while positioned side-by-side.
- The cyclists rode two abreast on the trail.
Related Idioms
- Keep up with the Joneses: While not a direct synonym, this idiom relates to the metaphorical sense of "abreast," meaning to strive to match one's neighbors in social status or possessions. "Keeping abreast of industry standards" is a professional equivalent.
- On the ball: Alert and aware of new ideas, methods, or trends. This is similar to being "abreast" of developments.
- You have to be on the ball to keep abreast in this fast-moving sector.
Adjective
- being up to particular standard or level especially in being up to date in knowledge
- kept abreast of the latest developments
- constant revision keeps the book au courant
- always au fait on the latest events
- up on the news
Adverb
- alongside each other, facing in the same direction