Have you ever struggled to remember the difference between forward and foreword? You’re not alone.
These two words sound alike but have different meanings and functions in writing. They cannot be used interchangeably.
You’ll learn the difference between forward vs foreword. You’ll also learn how to use them both correctly.
What is a Foreword?
A foreword is a preface written by a writer other than the author that appears at the start of a book. It gives background knowledge or context for the book and the writer.
The foreword is usually written by a well-known authority in the field related to the book’s subject. Their task is to share their thoughts on the importance and worth of the book.
See also: “Parable” vs “Allegory”: Main Differences & How to Use Both Correctly as a Writer
When to Use a Foreword
Here are some situations where a foreword might be appropriate:
The book is by a new or unknown author: A well-known authority in the field related to the book’s subject introduces the author and their work to the audience.
Book is on a complex or specialized topic: The writer can give background information that is crucial to understanding the book’s significance in the field.
The book is a memoir or biography: A friend, family member, or colleague of the author can write the forward to introduce their life and work.
Who Writes a Foreword?
The ideal foreword writer should have:
An expert in the book’s subject: They should be able to write authoritatively regarding the book’s significance and content.
An association with the writer or book: There may be a personal bond, a professional history, or a mutual respect for the author’s output.
Strong writing abilities: To pique the reader’s interest, it should be well-written and captivating.
See also: “Citing” vs “Siting”: Main Differences & How to Use Both Correctly as a Writer
What Does Forward Mean?
These are the various meanings of forward;
As an Adverb, forward means “toward the front” or “onward in time.”
Examples:
- Move forward two steps
- The project is moving forward.
As an adjective, it means “located at or near the front” or “bold” or “progressive.”
Examples:
- The forward player scored a goal
- That was a very forward question.
As a verb, forward means “to send something on to another recipient.”
Example:
Please forward this email to your manager.
See also: “Prophecy” vs “Prophesy”: Main Differences & How to Use Both Correctly as a Writer
How to Use Forward and Foreword Correctly
Here’s a tip to remember the difference between forward vs foreword.
Books have words, and foreword ends in “word.”
By keeping this in mind, you can easily distinguish between the two terms.
Examples of Using Forward vs Foreword in a Sentence
- I was honored when my mentor agreed to write the foreword for my novel.
- We marched forward with determination.
- The team’s forward line was particularly strong.
- Please forward this application to the hiring manager.
See also: “Apart” vs “A Part”: Main Differences & How to Use Both Correctly as a Writer
Conclusion
By understanding the difference between “forward” and “foreword,” we are confident that you will now gain clarity and precision of communication in your writing.
References
- MIT – forward vs foreword
- Writers digest – forward vs foreword
