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Definitions

forward-thinking

[fawr-werd-thing-king] / ˈfɔr wərdˌθɪŋ kɪŋ /
ADJECTIVE
thinking and planning for the future
Synonyms
STRONGEST
avant-garde forward-looking innovative modern nontraditional progressive
STRONG
dynamic go-getting positive
WEAK
broad-minded enlightened liberal radical reformist revolutionary
Antonyms
STRONGEST
backward-looking
STRONG
conventional regressive traditional

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Consumer advocates have been calling for something similar to IRS Direct File for decades, pointing with exasperation to supposedly forward-thinking European countries like the Netherlands, where tax filing is automatic and painless.

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

In March 2022, forward-thinking British pop auteur Charli xcx released what was to be her “sellout” record, “Crash.”

From Salon • Feb. 8, 2026

The school said the addition of the studio blended the school's music heritage with a modern, forward-thinking vision for music education.

From BBC • Feb. 1, 2026

He survived the firing of coach Jeff Fisher after the 2016 season and has become one of the NFL’s most forward-thinking executives.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 25, 2026

As usual he was organized, forward-thinking, and self-critical.

From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman