Definition

Adverb 1. In a forward direction; continuing ahead: Moving or progressing in a direction that is ahead, further along, or into the future. 2. Forward in time: Used to indicate progression from a specific point in time into the future.

Usage and Examples

• As an adverb of direction:

  • The explorers pushed onward through the dense jungle.
  • After the short break, the march continued onward.

• As an adverb of time:

  • From the 19th century onward, industrial technology changed rapidly.
  • The policy will be in effect from today onward.

Advanced Usage

• "and so onward" (or "and so on"): Used to indicate that a list or series continues in a similar manner.
  • The series includes books on history, geography, sociology, and so onward.
• "onward and upward": An idiom expressing continuous improvement or progress.
  • After the successful product launch, the company's trajectory is onward and upward.

Variants and Related Words

• Onwards: An alternative form of the adverb, identical in meaning and usage.
  • From noon onwards, the library will be open.
• Onward (adjective, less common): Situated or directed ahead.
  • The onward journey was more difficult than expected.

Synonyms

• Forward: Toward the front or a point ahead.
• Ahead: In or to a forward position; onward in time.
• Forth: Forward in time, place, or order; onward.
• On: Continuing forward or ahead.

Antonyms

• Backward: Directed toward the back or past.
• Rearward: Toward the rear.

Related Phrases

• Move onward: To continue advancing or progressing.
  • Despite the setbacks, we must move onward.
• From [time/point] onward: Starting at a specified time or point and continuing.
  • From this moment onward, I will study harder.

Adverb

1. in a forward direction
   • go ahead
   • the train moved ahead slowly
   • the boat lurched ahead
   • moved onward into the forest
   • they went slowly forward in the mud
2. forward in time or order or degree
   • from that time forth
   • from the sixth century onward