bring forward — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 meanings. Learn them one at a time, then test yourself.

phrasal verb2 meanings

bring forward

move to an earlier time suggest for discussion

Meaning 1 · most common

move to an earlier time

bring sth forward

To change the time or date of something so that it happens sooner than originally planned.

How oftenCommon

LevelB1

Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

The meeting was brought forward to Monday so everyone could attend.

A: When is your dentist appointment?
B: It was on Friday, but they brought it forward to Wednesday.

Common mistake

Not: They brought forward it to 9am.

Say: They brought it forward to 9am.

With a pronoun, the object goes in the middle: 'bring it forward'.

More on “move to an earlier time”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

If I could change something about my school schedule, I would bring forward the start time of classes so we could finish earlier in the day.

Tell it apart

Let's bring the meeting forward to Monday.

make it earlier

Let's put the meeting back to Friday.

delay it

Goes with

bring forward + event

Practice saying this

Next meaning: suggest for discussion

Meaning 2

suggest for discussion

bring sth forward

To introduce an idea, suggestion, or topic for people to consider or talk about.

How oftenNow and then

LevelB2

Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

She brought forward a new proposal at the team meeting.

A: Is there anything else we need to talk about?
B: Yes, I'd like to bring forward an idea for our next project.

Common mistake

Not: He brought forward ~~with~~ a new idea.

Say: He brought forward a new idea.

'Bring forward' takes the object directly — no 'with'.

More on “suggest for discussion”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

During group discussions, I think it's important for everyone to feel comfortable bringing forward their opinions.

Tell it apart

They brought forward a new proposal.

put it up for discussion

They brought up the topic of pay.

mentioned it — more casual

Goes with

bring forward + proposal

Practice saying this

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move to an earlier time suggest for discussion