to look ahead

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to look ahead" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing planning for the future or considering potential outcomes. Example: "In order to succeed, we must learn to look ahead and anticipate challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

You have to look ahead".

The New York Times - Sports

Instead, he urged voters to look ahead.

The New Yorker

But it's time to look ahead".

The New York Times

And Barr began to look ahead.

The New Yorker

I want to look ahead.

The New York Times - Sports

A failure to look ahead.

The New York Times

PHOENIX Dare to look ahead?

The New York Times - Sports

"I like to look ahead," Maddux said.

The New York Times - Sports

It wasn't a moment to look ahead.

The New York Times - Magazine

The way forward is to look ahead".

The New York Times

But Boone wanted to look ahead.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to look ahead" in business contexts, ensure it's paired with actionable strategies. For example: Instead of simply stating "we need to look ahead", specify "we need to look ahead and invest in renewable energy sources".

Common error

Avoid using "to look ahead" without providing context or direction. Saying "we need to look ahead" without explaining what aspects need consideration leaves the statement weak and unactionable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to look ahead" functions primarily as an infinitive phrase, often used as a verb complement or adverbial modifier. It expresses the act of directing one's attention and thoughts towards the future. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to look ahead" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It primarily functions as an infinitive phrase, conveying the act of considering future possibilities and planning for upcoming events. Its neutral register and broad applicability make it suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and business. While highly versatile, it's important to use "to look ahead" with specific context and actionable strategies to avoid vague statements. Alternatives include ""to plan for the future"" and ""to anticipate future events"", but "to look ahead" generally promotes a proactive and forward-thinking mindset.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to think ahead

A more concise and general way of expressing the idea of considering the future.

to plan for the future

Emphasizes the planning aspect of considering what is to come.

to anticipate future events

Highlights the act of predicting or expecting what might happen.

to consider future possibilities

Focuses on the act of thinking about potential outcomes.

to prepare for what's to come

Highlights the preparation aspect of considering the future.

to be forward-thinking

Emphasizes the characteristic of being oriented towards the future.

to have foresight

Focuses on the ability to predict or understand future events or developments.

to take a long-term view

Focuses on considering the distant future rather than immediate concerns.

to envision the future

Highlights the act of imagining or visualizing what the future might hold.

to project into the future

Highlights making an estimate or forecast of (something) on the basis of current trends.

FAQs

How can I use "to look ahead" in a sentence?

You can use "to look ahead" to emphasize the importance of considering future possibilities or planning for upcoming events. For example, "It's crucial "to look ahead" and anticipate potential challenges in the market."

What are some alternatives to "to look ahead"?

Some alternatives include "to plan for the future", "to anticipate future events", or "to consider future possibilities", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "look ahead" or "looking ahead"?

Both "look ahead" and "looking ahead" are grammatically correct, but they function differently. "Look ahead" is often used as part of an infinitive phrase (e.g., "It's important "to look ahead""), while "looking ahead" can function as a gerund or part of a continuous verb tense (e.g., "We are "looking ahead" to the next quarter").

What does it mean "to look ahead" in a business context?

In a business context, ""to look ahead"" typically means to anticipate future trends, plan for potential challenges, and make strategic decisions that will benefit the company in the long term. It involves proactive thinking and a focus on future growth and stability.