plough forwards

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "plough forwards" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of moving ahead or making progress, often in a determined or forceful manner. Example: "Despite the challenges, we must plough forwards and continue with our plans for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Best cover up the worst bits, enjoy the dip in oestrogen (which apparently makes you less inclined to nurture – ie more time for your own projects) and plough forwards into your prime.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

I plough forward.

The Guardian

They can plough forward with their own riffs on Leveson, as the House of Lords did recently when it overturned government whips and passed an amendment to the investigatory powers bill, proposed by Baroness Hollins, that allows people suing a newspaper over phone-hacking to claim their costs of their action from the publisher in question: section 40's little brother.

The Guardian

When we do it, we can march on and plough forward".

BBC

Eubank Jr started the fifth round talking to Saunders but soon abandoned that tactic when his opponent, undeterred, continued to plough forward.

BBC

You have noticeable voices loudly pronouncing that forward movement involves making games with 'empathy' or 'emotions.' As creators, we need to throw that mentality in the bin and plough forward with more commitment and creativity.

Vice

Broomfield thinks the Tea Party is now ploughing forward with an approach that exploits people's lack of faith in anything wider than their own fate.

The Guardian - Film

Sony, which is having a truly awful year, is really ploughing forward with its sacrilegious commissioning, this week announcing that a remake of Jumanji will hit cinemas on Christmas Day 2016.

Independent

Baiting the opposition is not the Grecians' style, however - it is hard for even their most fervent fans to look aggressive while gesticulating with false foam hands - and as Exeter ploughed forward in a wind-assisted second half they never let up in their support.

The Guardian - Sport

But a game Chisora kept ploughing forward, to the extent that Klitschko looked to be tiring by round five.

BBC

The third round looked like it might be a turning point, Frampton landing with a barrage of lethal left hooks and Avalos looking more and more ragged as he came ploughing forward.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context: "Plough forwards" evokes a sense of determined, perhaps even laborious, progress. Use it when this imagery is appropriate. Otherwise, a simpler phrase like "move forward" may be preferable.

Common error

While "plough forwards" is grammatically sound, its agricultural origins may make it sound somewhat old-fashioned in modern contexts. Ensure it aligns with the tone and register of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "plough forwards" functions as a verb phrase, describing a determined and forceful action of moving ahead. It implies overcoming resistance or difficulty in making progress. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "plough forwards" is a grammatically correct verb phrase that suggests determined progress, even when facing challenges. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, although it is considered relatively rare in modern usage compared to similar phrases like "press on" or "move forward". Its connotations of laborious effort may make it suitable for certain contexts, but writers should be mindful of its potential to sound slightly old-fashioned. Predominantly found in News & Media, it carries a neutral register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

press on

Implies a continued effort despite difficulties; less agricultural connotation.

forge ahead

Suggests creating a new path or making rapid progress, potentially overcoming obstacles.

push forward

Emphasizes exerting effort to advance, often against resistance.

move forward

A general term for making progress; lacks the forceful imagery of "plough".

proceed

A formal term for continuing an action or process.

advance

Implies a strategic or planned movement forward.

drive on

Suggests a strong, relentless effort to continue.

continue onward

Emphasizes the continuation of a journey or process.

keep going

A more informal way to encourage persistence.

make headway

Focuses on the progress made, rather than the act of moving forward.

FAQs

How can I use "plough forwards" in a sentence?

You can use "plough forwards" to describe making determined progress despite challenges, as in, "Despite the setbacks, we must plough forwards with our plans".

What can I say instead of "plough forwards"?

You can use alternatives like "press on", "forge ahead", or "push forward" depending on the context.

Is "plough forwards" commonly used in modern English?

While grammatically correct, "plough forwards" is not as common as alternatives like "move forward" or "proceed". Consider your audience and the desired tone when choosing a phrase.

What's the difference between "plough forwards" and "plough ahead"?

"Plough forwards" emphasizes movement in a specific direction, while "plough ahead" focuses on continuing without hesitation, regardless of obstacles. The best alternative depends on the intended emphasis.