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bring forward — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 different jobs. Tap a meaning to jump to it — then lock each one in by saying it out loud.

phrasal verb2 meanings
  1. 1 move to an earlier timeTo change the time or date of something so that it happens sooner than originally planned.
  2. 2 suggest for discussionTo introduce an idea, suggestion, or topic for people to consider or talk about.
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All meanings, in depth

Ordered by how often you'll hear each one — the meaning tells you what it does, the examples and tips show it in use.

1

move to an earlier time

B1bring sth forwardMost common

To change the time or date of something so that it happens sooner than originally planned.

The meeting was brought forward to Monday so everyone could attend.

A: When is your dentist appointment?
B: It was on Friday, but they brought it forward to Wednesday.

If I could change something about my school schedule, I would bring forward the start time of classes so we could finish earlier in the day.

Common mistake

✗They brought forward it to 9am.

✓They brought it forward to 9am.

With a pronoun, the object goes in the middle: 'bring it forward'.

Tell it apart

Let's bring the meeting forward to Monday.

make it earlier

Let's put the meeting back to Friday.

delay it
Use 'bring forward' when you want something to happen earlier, not later.'Bring forward' is the opposite of 'put off' or 'postpone'.

Often paired with

bring forward + event
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2

suggest for discussion

B2bring sth forward

To introduce an idea, suggestion, or topic for people to consider or talk about.

She brought forward a new proposal at the team meeting.

A: Is there anything else we need to talk about?
B: Yes, I'd like to bring forward an idea for our next project.

During group discussions, I think it's important for everyone to feel comfortable bringing forward their opinions.

Common mistake

✗He brought forward with a new idea.

✓He brought forward a new idea.

'Bring forward' takes the object directly — no 'with'.

Tell it apart

They brought forward a new proposal.

put it up for discussion

They brought up the topic of pay.

mentioned it — more casual
Use 'bring forward' when you want to formally suggest something for discussion, especially in meetings.'Bring up' is more informal and common in everyday conversation; 'bring forward' sounds more formal.

Often paired with

bring forward + proposal
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move to an earlier timesuggest for discussion