CARRY FORWARD

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📖 Definition

To carry forward means to transfer or progress something from one stage to another, particularly involving continuation or development of ideas, projects, or values.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

To carry forward means to transfer or progress something from one stage to another, particularly involving continuation or development of ideas, projects, or values.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
The verb and particle can be separated.
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Neutral
Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
Requires an object to complete its meaning.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple carry forward They carry forward the lessons from past failures.
Past Simple carried forward She carried forward the project's plans despite many obstacles.
Present Continuous carrying forward The team is carrying forward the work started by their predecessors.
Present Perfect have carried forward We have carried forward those traditions for many generations.

💡 When to Use

Retaining knowledge
Use it when discussing the continuation or application of knowledge to new situations or contexts, retaining past lessons.
Example: "Our ancestors carried forward these customs to ensure cultural preservation."
Project continuation
Ideal for projects or tasks transitioned from one phase to another, ensuring uninterrupted progress and development.
Example: "The new manager will carry forward the unfinished initiatives."
Legacy
Employ it when describing the act of taking a legacy, whether cultural or technological, to future generations.
Example: "This foundation aims to carry forward the founder's legacy of education."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Verb-object separation
❌ Wrong: They carry the task forward successfully.
✅ Correct: They carry forward the task successfully.
💡 Tip: Place ‘forward’ immediately after ‘carry’ unless there’s a very specific need.
Intransitive error
❌ Wrong: We carry forward quickly.
✅ Correct: We carry forward the strategic plans quickly.
💡 Tip: Always use an object with 'carry forward.'
Form confusion
❌ Wrong: He is carry forward ideas.
✅ Correct: He is carrying forward ideas.
💡 Tip: Ensure the correct verb form matches the tense.

"To carry forward the wisdom of the past is to enrich the present and create a luminous future filled with possibilities."

In Context

The first successful transatlantic telegraph cable, completed in 1866, was an achievement that carried forward decades of technological innovations. Cyrus West Field, an American businessman, spearheaded the project, driven by a vision to shrink the communication gap between continents. Initial attempts in the 1850s met with setbacks, such as cable breaks and poor insulation. Despite these failures, Field was undeterred and formed a formidable team of engineers to carry forward his ambitions. With improved materials and meticulous planning, they embarked again, determined to carry forward past learnings to ensure success. Finally, in 1866, the SS Great Eastern laid the cable that permanently connected North America and Europe. This success carried forward a new era of communication, revolutionizing global interactions. The cable's significance was celebrated worldwide, highlighting how the determined will to carry forward dreams can transcend obstacles. Field and his team's efforts not only overcome physical challenges but also laid the groundwork for future technological revolutions, showcasing human perseverance’s power.

Practice

CARRY FORWARD - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

  • 1
    Listen to example

    The committee will carry forward the agenda from last year’s meeting.

    How to Become a Hiker
  • 2
    Listen to example

    In her new role, she aims to carry forward the company’s innovation legacy.

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  • 3
    Listen to example

    His efforts to carry forward environmental policies have gained widespread support.

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Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

advance propel

Antonyms

abandon

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"The team plans to ___ the traditions of craftsmanship."

carry through
carry forward
carry aside
carry off

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Carry Forward

What is the origin of carry forward?

+
The phrase 'carry forward' has origins in accounting and mathematics, where it denotes the transfer of figures from one column or period to the next. The usage expanded metaphorically in the 19th century to include ideas, traditions, and projects.

Can carry forward be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
Yes, 'carry forward' is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for business reports, academic settings, and casual conversations alike, effectively conveying continuation or progress.

What is the difference between carry forward and advance?

+
While both 'carry forward' and 'advance' imply progress, 'carry forward' often involves continuing an existing task or project. In contrast, 'advance' suggests moving forward, possibly introducing new elements or innovations rather than just maintaining continuation.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

phrasal-verb-move-forwardphrasal-verb-push-aheadphrasal-verb-press-onphrasal-verb-build-onphrasal-verb-carry-onphrasal-verb-drive-forward
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Hub National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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