What does advance mean?
Advance is a versatile English word that functions as both a verb and a noun, describing forward movement, progress, or improvement in nearly any domain — military, scientific, personal, or financial. As a verb, it can mean to move physically closer to something, to develop or improve over time, or to actively promote a cause or interest. As a noun, it can refer to a forward movement, an improvement or breakthrough, or a payment made before goods or services are delivered, as when an author receives an advance from a publisher. The word carries broadly positive connotations of growth and momentum, though it can sound neutral or even ominous in military contexts. Common phrases such as 'in advance', 'advance notice', and 'technological advance' show how deeply embedded the word is in everyday English. Derived forms include 'advanced', suggesting a high level of development, and 'advancement', which typically refers to career progression or institutional progress.
To move forward in a physical or figurative sense; to make progress or promote a cause.
"The scientists advanced a bold new theory about climate change."
Forward movement, progress, or money paid before it is due.
"The company offered her a substantial advance on her next book."
Used when referring to multiple instances of forward movement, progress, or prepayments.
"Recent advances in medicine have saved countless lives."
Advance comes from the same Latin root as 'adventure' — both literally mean 'to arrive at' something new.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of advance
Advance derives from the Old French 'avancer', meaning to move forward, which itself came from the Late Latin 'abante', meaning 'from before'. It entered English in the Middle English period, around the 15th century. It shares its Latin roots with words such as 'advantage', 'advent', and 'adventure', all of which carry the sense of coming toward or arriving at something.
Related word forms
How advance is actually used
Advance is common in both formal and informal contexts. In business, 'an advance' often refers to prepayment of money. The phrase 'in advance' is extremely common for indicating something done ahead of time.
Easily confused with advance
Advancement refers specifically to promotion or progress in rank or career, while advance is broader and can mean any forward movement or progress.
Advice is guidance or a recommendation given to someone, whereas advance means forward movement or progress.