Forward or Forwards: Which Is Correct? Meaning, Differences, and Examples

Forward or forwards is a common grammar question that confuses many English learners and even experienced writers. Both words are correct, but they are not always interchangeable. The correct choice depends on the sentence, grammatical function, and whether you are using American English or British English.

The word forward can function as an adverb, adjective, verb, or noun. Meanwhile, forwards is commonly used as an adverb to describe movement toward the front. It can also be a verb form or a plural noun in certain situations.

For example, “She walked forward” or “She walked forwards” are both correct. However, “Please forward the email” is correct, while “Please forwards the email” is incorrect.

In this guide, you will learn the meaning of forward or forwards, their key differences, grammar rules, pronunciation, regional preferences, and practical examples. You will also discover which word works best in formal writing, professional emails, and everyday conversations.

Forward or Forwards: Quick Answer

Both forward or forwards are grammatically correct, but their usage depends on context.

Use forward when describing movement, future progress, a position toward the front, or the action of sending something to another person.

Use forwards mainly when describing movement toward the front, particularly in British English.

Consider these examples:

• Correct: Please move forward.
• Correct: Please move forwards.
• Correct: I will forward your email.
• Incorrect: I will forwards your email.
• Correct: She forwards important emails every day.

The last example is correct because “forwards” is the third-person singular present-tense form of the verb “forward.”

Forward or Forwards Comparison Table

Simple rule: If you are unsure which word to choose, forward is usually the safer option because it works in more grammatical situations.

What Does Forward Mean?

The word forward generally means toward the front, ahead, or in the direction someone is facing. It can also describe progress, future developments, or the action of sending information.

Forward is a flexible English word because it can perform several grammatical functions.

Forward as an Adverb

As an adverb, forward describes the direction of movement.

Examples:

• The boy stepped forward.
• She leaned forward to read the sign.
• The car moved forward slowly.
• The students walked forward.
• He pushed the chair forward.
• The team continued moving forward.

In these sentences, forward answers the question “In which direction?”

It can also describe progress rather than physical movement.

Example:

“We need to move forward with our plans.”

Here, moving forward means making progress or continuing with a decision.

Forward as an Adjective

Forward can function as an adjective when describing something positioned toward the front or associated with future progress.

Examples:

• The forward section of the aircraft was damaged.
• She adopted a forward-thinking approach.
• The company developed a forward-looking strategy.
• The forward wheels need inspection.
• They made significant forward progress.

In these examples, forward modifies a noun.

You cannot normally replace it with forwards.

Correct: The forward section is closed.

Incorrect: The forwards section is closed.

Forward as a Verb

As a verb, forward means sending something to another person or destination.

It is commonly used in emails, business communication, and everyday conversations.

Examples:

• Please forward the message.
• I will forward the documents tomorrow.
• Can you forward this email to your manager?
• The receptionist forwarded my call.
• They forwarded the package to my new address.

The verb changes according to tense and subject.

The word forwards is correct as a verb when the subject is third-person singular in the present simple tense.

Forward as a Noun

Forward can also function as a noun, especially in sports.

It describes a player who occupies an attacking position.

Examples:

• The football forward scored a goal.
• The basketball forward played well.
• The coach selected a new forward.

The plural form is forwards.

Example:

“The team’s forwards scored three goals.”

What Does Forwards Mean?

The word forwards primarily functions as an adverb meaning toward the front or in the direction someone is facing.

It is particularly common in British English, although American speakers also understand and occasionally use it.

Examples:

• The child walked forwards.
• She leaned forwards.
• The car rolled forwards.
• He fell forwards onto the grass.
• The dancers stepped forwards together.
• The dog jumped forwards.

In each sentence, forwards describes the direction of movement.

Forwards as a Directional Adverb

Forwards is most commonly used to explain how something moves.

For example:

“The baby crawled forwards.”

This means the baby moved toward the front.

Another example:

“The driver moved the car forwards.”

Here, forwards identifies the direction of the vehicle.

Both examples could use forward without changing their essential meaning.

Forwards as a Verb

Forwards can also be the third-person singular present-tense form of the verb forward.

Examples:

• She forwards emails every morning.
• He forwards messages to his supervisor.
• The office forwards letters to the correct department.

This grammatical function is different from its use as a directional adverb.

Forwards as a Plural Noun

In sports, forwards refers to multiple attacking players.

Examples:

• The forwards practiced shooting.
• Both forwards scored during the match.
• The coach praised the forwards.

This meaning is unrelated to physical direction.

Forward or Forwards: Key Differences

The main difference between forward or forwards involves grammatical function, regional preference, and sentence structure.

Although both can describe direction, forward has a wider range of uses.

Difference in Grammar

Forward can function as an adverb, adjective, verb, or noun.

Forwards mainly functions as an adverb, but it can also be a third-person singular verb or plural noun.

Examples:

• Move forward. (Adverb)
• Move forwards. (Adverb)
• A forward position. (Adjective)
• Please forward the email. (Verb)
• She forwards emails. (Verb)
• The forwards scored twice. (Plural noun)

This distinction explains why both words are correct but cannot always replace each other.

Difference in Meaning

When describing physical movement, forward or forwards generally have the same meaning.

Compare:

“The girl stepped forward.”

“The girl stepped forwards.”

Both sentences describe movement toward the front.

However, forward has additional meanings related to progress, position, and sending information.

For example:

“Please forward the report.”

In this sentence, forward means send, not move toward the front.

Difference in Formal Writing

Forward is generally preferred in professional and academic writing because it is more widely used across English varieties.

Examples:

• We look forward to your response.
• The organization will move forward with its plans.
• Please forward the attached document.
• The project represents a step forward.

Forwards is still grammatically acceptable when functioning as an adverb.

However, forward is often the more consistent choice for international audiences.

Forward or Forwards in American English or British English

Regional preferences play an important role in choosing forward or forwards.

Both forms are used in American English or British English, but their frequency differs.

Forward in American English

American English generally prefers forward when describing movement or direction.

Examples:

• Walk forward.
• Move forward.
• Step forward.
• Lean forward.
• Look forward.

American writers also commonly use forward when discussing future plans or progress.

Example:

“We are moving forward with the project.”

Forwards is not necessarily incorrect in American English, but it is less common.

Forwards in British English

British English commonly uses forwards as a directional adverb.

Examples:

• She walked forwards.
• The car moved forwards.
• He leaned forwards.
• The child stepped forwards.

However, forward is equally grammatical in these situations.

British speakers may choose either form depending on context, personal preference, or writing style.

American English or British English Comparison

Important: The regional difference is a preference, not an absolute grammar rule.

When Should You Use Forward?

Use forward when the sentence requires an adjective, a base verb, or a directional adverb.

It is also useful when discussing progress, future developments, or professional communication.

Use Forward for Physical Movement

Examples:

• The athlete moved forward.
• She stepped forward.
• The vehicle rolled forward.
• He leaned forward.

Use Forward for Progress

Examples:

• We need to move forward.
• The business is moving forward.
• She took a major step forward in her career.
• The project is moving forward successfully.

In these examples, forward represents development or improvement.

Use Forward Before Nouns

Examples:

• Forward movement
• Forward planning
• Forward progress
• Forward position
• Forward thinking

Here, forward functions as an adjective.

Use Forward for Sending Information

Examples:

• Forward the message.
• Forward the email.
• Forward the documents.
• Forward the invitation.

In these sentences, forward is a verb.

When Should You Use Forwards?

Use forwards mainly when describing movement toward the front.

It is especially natural in British English.

Use Forwards for Direction

Examples:

• The child crawled forwards.
• The car moved forwards.
• She walked forwards.
• The chair tilted forwards.

Use Forwards for Body Movement

Examples:

• He leaned forwards.
• She bent forwards.
• The player jumped forwards.
• The man fell forwards.

Use Forwards With Third-Person Singular Subjects

Examples:

• She forwards messages.
• He forwards documents.
• The assistant forwards important calls.

In these sentences, forwards is a verb rather than an adverb.

Move Forward or Move Forwards: Which Is Correct?

Both move forward or move forwards are correct when describing movement toward the front.

Examples:

• Please move forward.
• Please move forwards.

Both sentences have essentially the same meaning.

However, move forward is more common in American English and is widely used in professional communication.

Move Forward in Business English

Move forward often means continuing with a plan, project, or decision.

Examples:

• We should move forward with the proposal.
• The company plans to move forward.
• We cannot move forward without approval.
• The team decided to move forward with the project.

In these situations, move forward is the more conventional expression.

Move Forwards in Everyday Conversation

Move forwards is especially natural in British English when describing physical direction.

Examples:

• Move forwards a little.
• The car needs to move forwards.
• Please move forwards in the queue.

Both forms remain grammatically correct.

Look Forward or Look Forwards: Which Is Correct?

Both look forward or look forwards can be correct, but look forward is the standard and more widely preferred expression.

The phrase “look forward to” means feeling pleased or excited about something expected in the future.

Examples:

• I look forward to meeting you.
• We look forward to your reply.
• She looks forward to the weekend.
• They look forward to visiting their family.

Is Look Forwards Correct?

Look forwards is possible, particularly in British English.

Example:

“He looks forwards to the holidays.”

However, “He looks forward to the holidays” is more conventional.

For formal writing, look forward is the better choice.

Look Forward to Hearing From You

The standard professional expression is:

“I look forward to hearing from you.”

This phrase commonly appears at the end of emails, letters, and job applications.

Remember that “look forward to” is followed by a noun or an -ing verb form.

Correct: I look forward to meeting you.

Incorrect: I look forward to meet you.

Step Forward or Step Forwards: Which Is Correct?

Both step forward or step forwards are grammatically correct when describing physical movement.

Examples:

• Please step forward.
• Please step forwards.

However, step forward also has figurative meanings.

Example:

“She stepped forward to help.”

This means she volunteered or offered assistance.

Another example:

“He took a step forward in his career.”

Here, step forward describes progress.

The expression “a step forward” is more conventional than “a step forwards.”

Lean Forward or Lean Forwards: Which Is Correct?

Both lean forward or lean forwards are correct.

They describe moving the upper body toward the front.

Examples:

• She leaned forward to listen.
• She leaned forwards to listen.
• He leaned forward in his chair.
• He leaned forwards in his chair.

The meaning remains the same.

Lean forward is more common in American English, while lean forwards is particularly natural in British English.

Go Forward or Go Forwards: Which Is Correct?

Both expressions can describe movement toward the front.

Examples:

• The vehicle can go forward.
• The vehicle can go forwards.

However, go forward is more commonly used when discussing plans, decisions, or future progress.

Examples:

• We decided to go forward with the proposal.
• The organization will go forward with its plans.
• The project cannot go forward without funding.

The expression “going forward” is also commonly used to mean “from now on.”

Example:

“Going forward, we will review our progress every month.”

Forward or Forwards in a Sentence: 20 Examples

Understanding examples is one of the easiest ways to learn the difference between forward or forwards.

10 Examples Using Forward

1. The teacher asked the students to move forward.
2. She stepped forward to receive her award.
3. Please forward this email to the office.
4. We look forward to your response.
5. The company is moving forward with its expansion.
6. He leaned forward to read the instructions.
7. The football player rushed forward.
8. The forward section of the building was damaged.
9. She took a major step forward in her career.
10. The driver slowly moved the vehicle forward.

10 Examples Using Forwards

1. The little boy walked forwards.
2. She leaned forwards to reach the table.
3. The car moved forwards along the road.
4. The dog jumped forwards.
5. He fell forwards after losing his balance.
6. The dancers stepped forwards together.
7. The child crawled forwards across the floor.
8. The chair tilted forwards.
9. The player ran forwards to receive the ball.
10. The passengers moved forwards through the aisle.

These examples demonstrate that both forms can describe direction, but forward has more grammatical uses.

Common Mistakes With Forward or Forwards

Many English learners make mistakes because they assume both words can be used in every situation.

Understanding the following errors will help you write more accurately.

Mistake 1: Using Forwards as an Adjective

Incorrect: The forwards movement was slow.

Correct: The forward movement was slow.

Explanation: Forward is the adjective form used before a noun.

Mistake 2: Using Forwards as a Base Verb

Incorrect: Please forwards the email.

Correct: Please forward the email.

Explanation: The imperative sentence requires the base form of the verb.

However, “She forwards the email” is correct.

Mistake 3: Assuming Forwards Is Incorrect

Incorrect assumption: Forwards is not a real English word.

Correct understanding: Forwards is a standard English word commonly used as a directional adverb.

Example:

“The child walked forwards.”

This sentence is grammatically correct.

Mistake 4: Using Forwards Before a Noun

Incorrect: We need a forwards strategy.

Correct: We need a forward-looking strategy.

Explanation: Forward is the appropriate adjective form.

Mistake 5: Using the Wrong Verb Form

Incorrect: I look forward to see you.

Correct: I look forward to seeing you.

Explanation: After “look forward to,” use a noun or the -ing form of a verb.

Mistake 6: Assuming Both Words Are Always Interchangeable

Incorrect: I will forwards your message.

Correct: I will forward your message.

Explanation: Both forms can describe movement, but they cannot replace each other in every grammatical context.

Forward or Forwards: Easy Grammar Rules

The following rules make it easier to choose the correct word.

A useful memory trick is to remember that forward is more flexible, while forwards is mainly associated with direction.

Forward or Forwards: Pronunciation

Forward or forwards have similar pronunciations, but forwards includes an additional final sound.

How to Pronounce Forward

Forward is commonly pronounced:

FOR-werd

IPA pronunciation:

• American English: /ˈfɔr.wɚd/
• British English: /ˈfɔː.wəd/

The word has two syllables.

How to Pronounce Forwards

Forwards is commonly pronounced:

FOR-werdz

IPA pronunciation:

• American English: /ˈfɔr.wɚdz/
• British English: /ˈfɔː.wədz/

The main difference is the final /z/ sound.

Both words normally have two syllables, with stress on the first syllable.

Forward or Forwards: Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with these simple questions.

Question 1

Please ______ the documents to my email address.

A. Forward
B. Forwards

Answer: Forward

Question 2

The child walked ______ across the room.

A. Forward
B. Forwards

Answer: Both are correct.

Question 3

We need a ______-thinking approach.

A. Forward
B. Forwards

Answer: Forward

Question 4

She ______ important messages every morning.

A. Forward
B. Forwards

Answer: Forwards

Question 5

I look ______ to meeting you.

A. Forward
B. Forwards

Answer: Forward is the conventional choice, although forwards is possible in some varieties of English.

Question 6

The chair tipped ______.

A. Forward
B. Forwards

Answer: Both are correct.

Frequently Asked Questions About Forward or Forwards

Is It Forward or Forwards?

Both are correct English words. Forward has several grammatical functions, while forwards is mainly a directional adverb. The correct choice depends on the sentence.

Is Forwards Grammatically Correct?

Yes. Forwards is grammatically correct when describing movement toward the front.

Example:

“She walked forwards.”

It is particularly common in British English.

Is Forward American or British English?

Forward is used in both American English or British English. American English generally prefers forward as a directional adverb, while British English commonly uses both forms.

Is Forwards More British?

Yes. Forwards is relatively more common in British English, especially when describing physical movement.

However, it is also understood and occasionally used in American English.

Should I Say Moving Forward or Moving Forwards?

Both expressions are correct. Moving forward is more common in American English and is widely preferred when discussing progress, plans, or decisions.

Is It Looking Forward or Looking Forwards?

Both expressions are possible, but looking forward is the more conventional and widely accepted form.

Example:

“I am looking forward to seeing you.”

Is It Step Forward or Step Forwards?

Both are correct when describing physical movement. Step forward is generally more common and is also used to describe progress or volunteering.

Is It Lean Forward or Lean Forwards?

Both expressions are grammatically correct. Lean forward is more common in American English, while lean forwards is especially natural in British English.

Can Forward Be Used as a Verb?

Yes. Forward can mean sending information, documents, emails, or messages to another person.

Example:

“Please forward the email to your manager.”

Can Forwards Be Used as a Verb?

Yes. Forwards is the third-person singular present-tense form of the verb forward.

Example:

“She forwards emails every day.”

Is It Backward or Backwards, Forward or Forwards?

The pattern is similar.

American English generally prefers backward or forward as directional adverbs.

British English commonly uses backwards or forwards.

However, backward or forward are the standard adjective forms.

Examples:

• A backward movement.
• A forward movement.
• She walked backwards.
• He stepped forwards.

What Is the Difference Between Forward or Onward?

Forward generally describes movement toward the front or progress.

Onward emphasizes continuing a journey, activity, or process.

Examples:

• The car moved forward.
• The travelers continued onward.
• We must move forward with the plan.
• The team pressed onward despite difficulties.

The meanings can overlap, but their emphasis is different.

Which Word Should I Use in Professional Emails?

Forward is generally the preferred choice in professional emails.

Examples:

• Please forward the attached file.
• I look forward to your response.
• We look forward to working with you.

These expressions are widely accepted in business communication.

Is Forward or Forwards Better for Academic Writing?

Forward is generally the safer choice for academic writing, especially when discussing progress, direction, or future developments.

However, forwards remains grammatically correct as a directional adverb.

Is It Walk Forward or Walk Forwards?

Both expressions are correct.

Walk forward is more common in American English, while walk forwards is especially natural in British English.

Both describe walking toward the front.

Is It Going Forward or Going Forwards?

Both expressions are grammatically possible.

However, going forward is more conventional when referring to future plans or actions.

Example:

“Going forward, we will improve our communication.”

Does Forwards Always Mean Physical Movement?

No. Forwards often describes physical movement, but it can also appear in figurative expressions about progress.

It can also function as a verb form or plural noun.

For example:

“She forwards important documents.”

Here, forwards means sends.

Conclusion

The difference between forward or forwards mainly depends on grammar, context, and regional English preferences.

Both words are correct when describing movement toward the front. However, forward is more versatile because it can function as an adverb, adjective, verb, or noun.

Forwards is especially common as a directional adverb in British English. It can also function as a third-person singular verb or plural sports noun.

In American English, forward is generally preferred. In British English, both forms are commonly accepted when describing direction.

For formal writing, academic assignments, professional emails, or international communication, forward is usually the safest choice.

Remember the main rule: Use forward for adjectives, base verbs, and general direction. Use forwards when it functions naturally as a directional adverb, a third-person singular verb, or a plural noun.

By understanding these differences, you can avoid common grammar mistakes and confidently choose the correct word in any sentence.

Oliver Harrington

I am Oliver Harrington, a writer interested in education, useful skills, and the many ways people can continue learning throughout life. I enjoy researching topics and presenting information in a clear, straightforward way. At Teachlora, I share educational insights, learning resources, study advice, and practical ideas designed to help readers grow their knowledge. I also wrote The Lifelong Learner’s Path and Simple Skills for Better Learning to encourage readers to make learning a regular part of life.

Books:

• The Lifelong Learner’s Path
• Simple Skills for Better Learning