Advance

Definition

Advance is a verb and noun. As a verb, it means to move forward, improve, or make progress. As a noun, it refers to forward movement, progress, or an improvement, as well as a payment made before it is due.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ədˈvæns/
• Respelling: ad-VANS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ədˈvɑːns/
• Respelling: ad-VAHNS

Etymology

The word "advance" originates from the Old French term "avancer," meaning "to go forward," derived from the Latin "abante," meaning "before" or "in front." It entered English in the late 14th century with a similar meaning of moving forward or making progress.

Derivatives

• Advancement (noun)
• Advanced (adjective)
• Advancer (noun)
• Advancing (verb, present participle)
• Advances (noun, plural)

Synonyms

• Progress
• Promote
• Improve

Antonyms

• Retreat
• Recede
• Decline

Usage

The word "advance" is commonly used to describe movement forward in physical, metaphorical, or financial contexts. For example, "Technology continues to advance rapidly," or "He made an advance payment on his loan."

Related Terms

• Progress: Forward movement toward a goal or improvement.
• Promotion: Advancement in position or rank.
• Investment: The action of putting resources into a project to achieve growth or benefit.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To move forward or make progress: Refers to the act of proceeding or progressing in a particular direction or field.
  • Example: "They worked hard to advance their research."
• To promote or support someone or something: Refers to helping or furthering the position or development of someone or something.
  • Example: "Her new role will help advance her career."

Noun

• A forward movement or improvement: Describes progress or a step forward in development.
  • Example: "The team's recent advance in technology has been impressive."
• A payment made before it is due: Refers to an amount of money paid ahead of the scheduled time.
  • Example: "He received an advance on his salary."