Definition

1. 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.

2. 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

1. 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

1. alongside each other, facing in the same direction