Forth

Definition

Forth is an adverb that denotes moving forward or onward in place or time.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb
• Preposition

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fɔrθ/
• Respelling: FORTH (with "FORTH" as in "north")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fɔːθ/
• Respelling: FORTH (with "FORTH" as in "north")

In both dialects, "forth" places the primary stress on the entire syllable. The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "FORTH."

Etymology

The word "forth" originates from the Old English "forð," meaning "forward" or "onward," which is related to the Proto-Germanic "furthra," also meaning "forward." It has been used in the English language since before the 12th century to denote movement in a forward direction or a continuation in time.

Derivatives

• Forthcoming (adjective)
• Henceforth (adverb)
• Back and forth (phrase)
• Thenceforth (adverb)
• Hereforth (adverb, archaic)

Synonyms

• Forward
• Onward
• Outward

Antonyms

• Backward
• Inward
• Behind

Usage

"Forth" is commonly used in formal and literary contexts to indicate movement in a forward direction or continuation of an action. It is often found in older or more traditional English expressions, such as "back and forth," or in phrases that indicate the emergence of something, such as "bring forth."

Related Terms

• Advance
• Progress
• Proceed
• Continue
• Ahead

Detailed Definition

Adverb

• In a Forward Direction: Used to describe movement from a starting point to a destination, or progression in time.
  • Example: The soldiers marched forth into battle.

• Onward in Time or Continuation: Refers to continuing from a particular point in time or from a specific event.
  • Example: From this day forth, we shall honor their memory.

• Outward or Away from a Point of Origin: Used in expressions to indicate something emerging, coming into being, or being brought out.
  • Example: She called forth the spirits from the ancient book.

• In a Metaphorical Sense: Refers to bringing ideas, plans, or creations into existence or awareness.
  • Example: The artist brought forth a new masterpiece.

Preposition

• Out from (a starting point, place, or condition); from.
  • ‍Example: He came forth from the shadows.