Forward vs Backward Quiz: Test Yourself
“Take one step forward.”
“She glanced backward at the road.”
Common in British English. Never use them as adjectives.
“Please forward me that email.” Backward has no verb use.
Forward vs backward looks like an easy pair, since they are direction opposites. The confusion starts with the extra -s (forwards, backwards), with words that act as adjectives, adverbs and verbs, and with the fact that each word has meanings beyond direction. This guide sorts all of that out with clear examples.
| Term | Meaning | Part of speech | Example sentence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forward | Toward the front; ahead; to send on | Adverb, adjective, verb, noun | We moved forward with the plan. |
| Backward | Toward the back; behind; in reverse | Adverb, adjective | He took a backward step. |
| Forwards | Same as forward, as an adverb | Adverb | The line moved forwards slowly. |
| Backwards | Same as backward, as an adverb | Adverb | She said the word backwards. |
What does forward mean?
Forward means toward the front, in the direction you are facing or heading. It is the most flexible word in this pair, because it works in several roles.
As an adverb, it describes movement: “The crowd pushed forward.” As an adjective, it describes a noun: “a forward pass” or “forward planning.” As a verb, it means to send something on to someone else: “Can you forward that message to Priya?” It can also be a noun, as in a forward on a football or basketball team.
Forward can also describe a person who acts too boldly or too familiarly, as in “That comment felt a little forward.” In another sense, it looks to the future: “I look forward to meeting you.”
What does backward mean?
Backward means toward the back, behind you, or in the opposite order to normal. Its main jobs are as an adverb and an adjective.
As an adverb: “She stepped backward to get a wider view.” As an adjective: “He gave one backward glance before leaving.” Unlike forward, it is not used as a verb.
Backward can also mean reversed, such as a backward alphabet or a shirt worn backward. Be careful when describing people or places as backward in the sense of undeveloped or slow to learn. It can sound insulting, so use it for direction instead.
Forward vs backward: how do you use each one?
Use forward when the movement or focus is ahead, and backward when it is behind or reversed. A quick test is to picture the direction you are facing. If the action goes the way your eyes point, choose forward. If it goes the opposite way, choose backward.
Two practical points settle most cases. First, only forward works as a verb. Second, as adjectives, both words stay without -s: a forward roll, a backward step. Adding -s to an adjective (“a backwards step”) is a common slip.
Is it forward or forwards, backward or backwards?
As adverbs, both versions are accepted. Forward and backward are more common in American English, while forwards and backwards are often preferred in British English. Either is fine as long as you stay consistent within one piece of writing.
The key rule is that adjectives never take the -s. Write “a backward glance,” not “a backwards glance.” Some fixed phrases also lean one way, such as “backwards and forwards” in British usage. When in doubt, drop the -s and you will rarely be wrong.
How can you remember which one to use?
Link each word to a quick image. Forward starts with “for,” as in the direction you are going for. Backward contains “back,” which points to your back, the side behind you.
Memory tricks
- “Fore” means front. Forward shares its start with fore, as in forehead, the front of your head.
- “Back” is inside backward. If the word hides “back,” it points behind you.
- Only forward is an action word. If you can send it (an email), it is forward.
Common mistakes with forward and backward
- She took a backwards glance. She took a backward glance.
- Please backward the file to me. Please forward the file to me.
- We made a forwards pass. We made a forward pass.
- He walked foreward into the room. He walked forward into the room.
- I am looking backward to your reply. I am looking forward to your reply.
FAQ
Is it forward or forwards?
Both are correct as adverbs. Forward is more common in American English, and forwards is often preferred in British English.
Is it backward or backwards?
Both are accepted as adverbs. As an adjective, use backward only, as in a backward glance.
What is the opposite of forward?
Backward is the direct opposite of forward when you are talking about direction.
Can forward be used as a verb?
Yes. To forward something means to send it on to another person, such as an email or a package. Backward is not used as a verb.
Is it rude to call something backward?
It can be. Calling a person or place backward in the sense of undeveloped can sound insulting, so keep the word for direction and reversal.
Conclusion
The forward vs backward difference comes down to direction: forward goes ahead, backward goes behind, and only forward doubles as a verb. Drop the -s when you need an adjective, and you will stay correct. Share this with someone who mixes these up!