looking directly forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looking directly forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is facing straight ahead or concentrating on what lies ahead, both literally and metaphorically. Example: "As she stood at the edge of the cliff, she took a deep breath, looking directly forward into the vast ocean."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The pose for Mr. Clinton's portrait, standing and looking directly forward, was the most sensible approach to capturing his style, Mr. Knox said.

The New York Times

I think it's our job to be creating something new and looking directly forward, instead of repeating something old school or passé.

Vice

Based on the finding that the drivers responded to fog and anti-fog in completely different ways, Pretto et al. suggest that one important factor may be the contrast gradient between central vision (where the participant is looking directly forward, down the road in this case) and peripheral vision (toward the edges of the scene, such as the roadsides in this case).

eLife

Stand looking directly forward into the mirror, with your back straight, your head high, and your shoulders back.

WikiHow

Next, looking directly forward, line up the eyeliner pencil from the edge of your nose, along your iris, to your eyebrow.

WikiHow

It's very important that you look straight ahead — both your face and your eyes should be looking directly forward at the mirror.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Mr. Clinton is unlikely to adopt Teddy Roosevelt's terseness, a style that looks directly forward to Hemingway.

The New York Times

Always be looking straight forward.

WikiHow

Avoid looking directly at any light sources.

WikiHow

Look straight forward.

WikiHow

As the two sides sat on opposite sides of a glossy walnut conference table, Mr. Boies leaned forward and looked directly at Mr. Neukom.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looking directly forward" when you want to emphasize a focused, unwavering gaze or orientation, either literally or metaphorically. For instance, it can describe someone's physical posture or their mental focus on future goals.

Common error

Avoid using "looking directly forward" in contexts where a general sense of progress or optimism is desired but a literal or strongly focused direction is not implied. Consider using more general terms like "looking ahead" or "moving forward" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking directly forward" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed or a state is maintained. Ludwig examples show it describing physical posture, mental focus, or orientation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

43%

News & Media

43%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "looking directly forward" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to convey a sense of focus and unwavering gaze, either physically or metaphorically. Ludwig's analysis indicates that the phrase functions primarily as an adverbial modifier, adding detail to how an action is performed. While versatile, "looking directly forward" is best employed when emphasizing intent and clarity, as it carries a stronger sense of determination than simpler alternatives like "looking ahead". Keep in mind to avoid metaphorical misinterpretations, ensuring that the intended focus aligns with the context. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and utility of this phrase across diverse writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

facing straight ahead

Emphasizes the physical direction of the face or object.

gazing straight ahead

Implies a sustained and focused look in the forward direction.

looking dead ahead

Adds a sense of determination and focus to the forward gaze.

eyes forward

A directive to maintain focus on what lies ahead.

keeping your eyes on the prize

Idiomatic expression for remaining focused on a goal.

focusing on the future

Shifts the emphasis to a future-oriented perspective.

maintaining a forward perspective

More formal way of expressing a focus on future progress.

advancing with clear vision

Implies a proactive movement toward a specific objective.

setting your sights ahead

Focus on aiming towards a defined goal.

planning ahead

Emphasis shifts from physical gaze to future planning.

FAQs

How can I use "looking directly forward" in a sentence?

The phrase "looking directly forward" describes a state of facing or focusing attention straight ahead. For example: "The model stood "looking directly forward", her expression unwavering" or "The company is "looking directly forward" to new opportunities".

What's a more concise way to say "looking directly forward"?

Alternatives include "facing straight ahead", "eyes forward", or simply "looking ahead". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it always necessary to include "directly" in the phrase "looking forward"?

No, "directly" is not always needed. "Looking forward" often implies a future orientation. However, including "directly" emphasizes an unwavering, focused gaze or anticipation. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it better to use "looking ahead" instead of "looking directly forward"?

Use "looking ahead" when conveying a general sense of planning or anticipation, while "looking directly forward" is more appropriate when emphasizing focus and unwavering gaze, either physically or metaphorically. Example: "The company is "looking ahead" to the next quarter's earnings" vs. "The driver was "looking directly forward", focused on the road".