Definition

1. Noun:
   • The outer or front court of a building or of a group of buildings: A "forecourt" is an open, often paved or landscaped area located in front of a building, typically serving as an approach or entrance space. It is the area between the main building and the public street or road.
   • (Sports, Tennis) The part of the court nearest the net: In tennis, the "forecourt" refers to the section of the court between the service line and the net.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Architectural):
  • The hotel's grand forecourt was filled with taxis and guests arriving for the event.
  • They gathered in the forecourt of the museum before the doors opened.
• Noun (Tennis):
  • The player moved quickly into the forecourt to volley the ball.
  • Her strategy was to dominate the forecourt and finish points at the net.

Advanced Usage

• "Forecourt of a petrol/gas station": This is a common British English usage referring to the open area at a filling station where the fuel pumps are located and vehicles stop to refuel.
  • Please do not use your mobile phone on the forecourt of the petrol station.

Variants and Related Words

• Court (n): An area, often rectangular and marked, used for playing a game like tennis or basketball; also, a courtyard.
• Courtyard (n): An unroofed area that is completely or partially enclosed by walls or buildings, typically within a building complex.

Synonyms

• Front court: (Especially in sports) A similar term for the area near the net or front of the playing area.
• Entrance plaza: An open public area leading to the entrance of a building.
• Approach: The area or path leading up to a building.

Antonyms

• Backcourt: (In sports like tennis or basketball) The rear part of the playing area, farthest from the net or front line.
• Rear courtyard: A courtyard located at the back of a building.

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Forecourt area: Emphasizes the spatial aspect of the forecourt.
  • The forecourt area will be closed for resurfacing next week.
• Forecourt lighting: Lighting specifically installed to illuminate a forecourt.
  • The new forecourt lighting has improved safety at night.

Noun

1. the outer or front court of a building or of a group of buildings