Forward vs Forwards: Which One Should You Use?

When I first started writing professionally, one thing that often slowed me down was deciding whether to use forward or forwards. 

This pair of words seemed interchangeable at first, but as I dug deeper, I realized how many subtle differences were tied to region, context, and grammatical structure. 

In American English, for example, “forward” is more commonly used in both speaking and writing, while British usage tends to include “forwards” more often. 

This difference may seem small, but it can affect the clarity of your message, especially if you’re trying to sound natural or correctly match the expectations of your readers in a specific region.

Over time, I’ve come to understand how this tiny detail matters. If you’ve ever wondered which version to use, know that it really depends on the context you’re writing in. 

In this article, we’ll explore why both forms exist, how they differ, and how you can avoid the common confusion they create. 

I’ll also share a comprehensive guide that will clarify the proper way to use them and explain how language, like all things, evolves. 

Every time I return to this topic, I’m reminded how everything in English is part of a larger structure that makes sense once we learn how the words fit together. 

Choosing the right form isn’t just about rules—it’s about knowing your audience and shaping your tone to match. And with the right guide, even tricky choices like these can feel simple and natural.

You Might Also like: Is It Too Cute Or To Cute? Get It Right Now!

Why is There Confusion?

In my years of teaching English, I’ve noticed how often learners struggle with the words forward and forwards. The confusion usually stems from how these words have evolved over centuries, shaped by linguistic changes, historical development, and regional habits.

Depending on where you are—whether it’s British, American, Canadian, Australian, or New Zealand English—the preferred form might be slightly different. Some conventions favor “forward,” while others lean toward “forwards.” 

This variation can seem minor, but it’s enough to make the lines feel blurred when trying to write or speak naturally.

The differences also lie in their meanings and uses, which may appear overlapping at first. In truth, they are often distinct, depending on the forms and usage in certain regions. 

Over time, a combination of influences—like regional preferences and evolving usage—has caused these words to vary in use. 

The speakers of each region have helped shape the lines of usage, even when the words themselves seem so similar. What once had clear-cut meanings has now become a product of language evolution, where differing rules and habits exist side by side. 

For many learners, understanding these fine distinctions makes a real difference in mastering natural English.

What Does the Word “Forward” Mean?

As an adverb: 

Forward means moving ahead, either in time, direction, or place. It shows movement toward a goal or destination. Example: “The team moved forward with the plan.”

As an adjective: 

Forward describes something or someone at the front, or being bold, confident, or forward-thinking. It can show a directional or figurative sense. Example: “She had a forward attitude in the meeting.”

As a verb: 

To forward means to send something onward, often to another person, team, or place. Example: “Can you forward the email to the manager?”

What Does the Word “Forwards” Mean?

In my experience as a language coach, I often emphasize how the word forwards works differently than forward in modern English. 

While forward is multifunctional, the word forwards serves only as an adverb, mainly showing movement or direction. You might say someone walked forwards or that a project is moving ahead. 

It refers to going toward a point, both literally and metaphorically, depending on the purpose or goal of the action. The meaning is usually tied to a sense of progress or action directed ahead, which is why it fits so naturally in everyday usage.

You Might Also like: Igniter or Ignitor: Which Spelling Should You Choose?

“Forward” vs. “Forwards”: The Differences

Usage in Different English Variants

American English:

In American English, “forward” is the standard and most commonly used form in both writing and speech. The word “forwards” is rarely used and can sound awkward or overly formal to native speakers.

Examples:

• She took a step forward.
  
• Let’s move forward with the proposal.
  

British English:

British English tends to accept both “forward” and “forwards”, but “forwards” is more commonly used in everyday contexts, especially when referring to physical movement or progress.

Examples:

• He walked forwards without hesitation.
  
• We need to look forwards, not backwards.
  

Canadian English:

Canadian usage typically mirrors American English, favoring “forward” in most contexts. However, “forwards” may still appear, especially in informal or conversational writing.

Examples:

• They are moving forward with the project.
  
• She leaned forward to hear better.
  

Australian English:

Australian English uses both forms, though “forwards” may be slightly more frequent in casual speech. Formal contexts often stick with “forward.”

Examples:

• The team pushed forward.
  
• He jumped forwards to catch the ball.
  

New Zealand English:

Similar to British usage, New Zealand English tends to prefer “forwards”, especially when describing motion or direction. Still, “forward” is acceptable and understood in most settings.

Examples:

• She moved forwards to greet them.
  
• The conversation moved forward constructively.

Common Contexts Where Each Is Used

“Forward”

“Forward” is commonly used in formal writing, business communication, and technical contexts. It is also the default choice in most American and Canadian English usage. The word functions as an adjective, verb, or adverb, making it more versatile in structured communication.

Examples:

• Please forward the report to your supervisor. (verb)
  
• The car rolled forward slowly. (adverb)
  
• He took a forward position in the discussion. (adjective)

“Forwards”

“Forwards” is typically used in everyday speech, especially in British, Australian, and New Zealand English. It mainly appears as an adverb, used when talking about physical movement or direction in an informal or conversational tone.

Examples:

• She walked forwards into the room.
  
• He stumbled forwards after tripping on the step.

British English Words Ending in ‘s’ vs American English

Examples of “Forward” and “Forwards” in Sentences

Examples of “Forward”  

• She took a step forward to address the audience. 

• Please forward the documents to the HR department.

• His forward thinking helped the team innovate quickly.

• The conversation is moving forward in a positive way.

• He was promoted for his forward approach to challenges.  

Examples of “Forwards”  

• He leaned forwards to hear the speaker more clearly. 

• The child ran forwards into the open field. 

• They moved forwards despite the difficulties.

• She stumbled forwards after missing a step.

• The team pushed forwards to meet the deadline.

Which One Should You Use: “Forward” or “Forwards”?

General Guidelines

Use “forward” in most situations, especially if you’re following American English rules. It’s the more common form and works well in both formal and informal contexts. 

In British English, “forwards” is often used in everyday speech but still means the same thing as “forward” when used as an adverb. Keep in mind that “forward” can also be an adjective and a verb, so it’s more versatile in sentence structure.

Tips for Writers

For formal writing, always choose “forward” to maintain clarity and professionalism. Use “forwards” only if you’re intentionally writing in a British tone or need a more conversational style. 

Be consistent—don’t switch between the two forms in the same piece. When in doubt, go with “forward”, especially in business, academic, or technical content where clarity is important.

Synonyms of “Forward” and “Forwards”

Synonyms of “Forward”:

• ahead
  
• onward
  
• forth
  
• send
  
• transmit
  
• dispatch
  
• relay
  
• deliver
  
• bold
  
• proactive
  
• assertive
  
• front
  
• advanced
  
• progressive

Synonyms of “Forwards”:

• ahead
  
• onward
  
• forth
  
• onwardly
  
• forthwith
  
• straight
  
• frontward
  
• moving ahead
  
• to the front
  
• in advance
  
• directionally
  
• forthcoming
  
• progressively
  
• further

Origins of “Forward” and “Forwards”

When I first explored the origins of the words forward and forwards, I was fascinated by how deeply they are rooted in Old English. 

The word forward comes from foreweard, which is a combining of fore (meaning “ahead” or “before“) and weard or ward, which implies “toward” something. 

The word forwards, on the other hand, evolved from foreweardes, where the -es suffix worked as an adverbial ending. Both terms share similar roots, but the contexts in which they’re used have changed significantly over time. 

This shift especially became clearer in the 19th century, when Webster’s dictionary in American English started favoring the shorter form, forward, in almost all situations. It became the standard form and was used particularly in American writing, where forwards was mostly dropped.

In British English, forwards continued to persist, especially in variants like Australian and New Zealand English, where the use of -s adverbial forms, such as “towards,” “backwards,” and “afterwards,” remained strong. 

This contrast between dialects shows how language evolves based on influenced usage patterns and regional preferences. The meaning of both words still points “in front” or “ahead,” but the derivation and preference can differ based on where and how the words are used. 

Personally, I’ve seen writers mix the two without knowing the subtle differences, especially when writing for a global audience. Understanding these components, their trace, and the derivation from Old English can help make more confident word choices in writing.

FAQs

Do you say forward or forwards?

Both “forward” and “forwards” are correct — it just depends on where you’re from and how you’re using the word.

• In American English, people usually say “forward” (e.g., move forward, look forward to it).
  
• In British English and other varieties like Australian or New Zealand English, “forwards” is often used in the same way (e.g., move forwards, step forwards).

Is it forward or forwards in the UK?

In the UK, both “forward” and “forwards” are used, but “forwards” is more common in everyday British English, especially when used as an adverb.

Examples in British English:

• ✅ She walked forwards into the room. (adverb – common)
  
• ✅ He took a step forwards. (adverb – common)
  
• ✅ The forward position is critical in football. (adjective – correct and standard)

Is it look forward or forwards?

The correct phrase is “look forward” (without “s”).

Is it going forward or going forwards?

Both “going forward” and “going forwards” are correct, but:

• “Going forward” is more common in American English.
  
• “Going forwards” is often used in British English.

What is the plural form of forward?

The word “forward” is usually uncountable when used as an adverb or adjective, so it doesn’t have a plural form in that context.

However, as a noun (like in sports: a forward in football), the plural is:

👉 forwards
Example: The team has three strong forwards.

Conclusion

When I first began writing professionally, one of the trickiest style distinctions I faced was deciding between forward and forwards. Over time, I realized the choice often depends on context, tone, and regional language habits. 

For instance, American English tends to prefer forward in nearly all situations, both formally and informally, while British English and other influenced variants, like Australian, New Zealand, and Canadian English, offer more flexibility. 

In these regions, forwards is quite common, especially in casual or conversing settings. That said, knowing the subtle nuances between them is essential for precise and effective communication.

Through personal experience, I’ve learned that being able to adjust your word usage depending on your audience and regional norms is a valuable skill. 

Whether you’re looking to sound more formal, casually engaging, or just correct, it helps to understand the conventions that shape these words. It’s not just about grammar rules—it’s about confidence in your language choices. So next time you’re pondering this interchangeable pair, consider the differences, the settings, and the usage that best fits your message. Mastering these small but important details can truly make your writing stand out for the right reasons.

Ronnie Dawson

A communication coach with a background in public speaking and business English. He helps professionals refine their English for workplace success.