The phrase “moving forward” is commonly used in emails, meetings, and conversations to indicate progress or what will happen next. While it’s professional and useful, repeating it can feel stale or robotic. Whether you’re writing to clients, teammates, or expressing personal growth, using varied alternatives makes your communication more vibrant, precise, and impactful.
Here are 25 excellent alternatives to “moving forward”, with examples and guidance to help you choose the best one for any situation.
1. From Now On
Meaning
Starting at this moment and continuing into the future.
Detailed Explanation
This phrase is clear and forward-looking. It sets a boundary for change or new actions.
Scenario Example
From now on, all reports should be submitted by Friday noon.
Best Use
Policy updates, decisions, goal-setting.
Tone
Decisive, straightforward.
2. Going Forward
Meaning
Looking ahead to what will happen or be done.
Detailed Explanation
Almost identical to “moving forward,” but slightly more casual. Frequently used in corporate communication.
Scenario Example
Going forward, let’s streamline the approval process.
Best Use
Business emails, meetings.
Tone
Professional, forward-looking.
3. In the Future
Meaning
Refers to any time after now.
Detailed Explanation
This is a neutral and flexible way to talk about coming events or goals.
Scenario Example
In the future, please double-check the attachment before sending.
Best Use
Corrective feedback, planning.
Tone
Neutral, respectful.
4. As We Progress
Meaning
While we continue to make progress.
Detailed Explanation
Great for ongoing projects or evolving strategies.
Scenario Example
As we progress, we’ll revisit our goals and adjust accordingly.
Best Use
Team updates, long-term planning.
Tone
Supportive, reflective.
5. Looking Ahead
Meaning
Thinking or planning about the future.
Detailed Explanation
Encourages vision and preparation without sounding too formal.
Scenario Example
Looking ahead, we need to prioritize customer feedback.
Best Use
Strategic conversations, positive framing.
Tone
Optimistic, proactive.
6. In the Days to Come
Meaning
During the upcoming days or near future.
Detailed Explanation
Adds a slight poetic touch to future-focused language.
Scenario Example
In the days to come, we’ll finalize our project milestones.
Best Use
Speeches, storytelling, team updates.
Tone
Hopeful, warm.
7. Henceforth
Meaning
Starting now and continuing into the future.
Detailed Explanation
Very formal, often used in written legal or administrative language.
Scenario Example
Henceforth, all budget approvals must pass through the finance office.
Best Use
Official memos, policy documents.
Tone
Formal, authoritative.
8. As We Move On
Meaning
As we continue beyond the current situation.
Detailed Explanation
Gives a natural transition tone, useful after resolving a past issue.
Scenario Example
As we move on from this setback, let’s focus on rebuilding momentum.
Best Use
Team motivation, reflection points.
Tone
Supportive, encouraging.
9. Down the Road
Meaning
Later in the future.
Detailed Explanation
Casual and often refers to future opportunities or consequences.
Scenario Example
We might explore international markets down the road.
Best Use
Planning discussions, casual meetings.
Tone
Relaxed, informal.
10. From This Point On
Meaning
Starting now and continuing.
Detailed Explanation
Emphasizes a clear turning point, good for new rules or standards.
Scenario Example
From this point on, lateness won’t be tolerated.
Best Use
Discipline, standards, personal resolutions.
Tone
Firm, serious.
11. In the Next Phase
Meaning
Entering a new stage or level.
Detailed Explanation
Best for structured projects or goal-oriented efforts.
Scenario Example
In the next phase, we’ll focus on customer retention strategies.
Best Use
Project management, change implementation.
Tone
Strategic, structured.
12. What Comes Next
Meaning
The immediate next steps or events.
Detailed Explanation
Useful when transitioning or explaining the next action clearly.
Scenario Example
Let’s clarify what comes next in our roadmap.
Best Use
Training, step-by-step instructions.
Tone
Practical, guiding.
13. Advancing
Meaning
Continuing to progress or improve.
Detailed Explanation
Implies momentum and development.
Scenario Example
We are advancing toward our year-end goals with strong momentum.
Best Use
Performance reviews, strategy updates.
Tone
Ambitious, professional.
14. Transitioning
Meaning
Moving from one stage or situation to another.
Detailed Explanation
Emphasizes change and movement.
Scenario Example
We’re transitioning to a new marketing platform starting next quarter.
Best Use
Change management, team communication.
Tone
Smooth, clear.
15. Proceeding
Meaning
Continuing forward with a plan or action.
Detailed Explanation
A clear and formal word often used in official or documented actions.
Scenario Example
We are proceeding with the merger after board approval.
Best Use
Official communication, reports.
Tone
Formal, authoritative.
16. Beyond This Point
Meaning
After now or after this milestone.
Detailed Explanation
Signifies movement past a decision, milestone, or challenge.
Scenario Example
Beyond this point, all requests must be approved by the manager.
Best Use
Training, instruction.
Tone
Instructional, clear.
17. As Time Goes On
Meaning
As time continues or as we progress.
Detailed Explanation
Ideal for processes or developments that evolve over time.
Scenario Example
As time goes on, you’ll become more comfortable with the software.
Best Use
Coaching, long-term support.
Tone
Patient, encouraging.
18. From Here
Meaning
Starting at this moment or place.
Detailed Explanation
Gives a fresh sense of momentum or beginning.
Scenario Example
From here, we’ll focus on reducing customer complaints.
Best Use
New plans, next steps.
Tone
Hopeful, action-oriented.
19. In the Near Term
Meaning
Soon or shortly ahead.
Detailed Explanation
Emphasizes short-term planning and changes.
Scenario Example
In the near term, we expect increased traffic from the new campaign.
Best Use
Strategy meetings, forecasting.
Tone
Professional, focused.
20. Onward
Meaning
Continuing forward, often with enthusiasm.
Detailed Explanation
A short, punchy word with emotional impact.
Scenario Example
We’ve overcome a tough quarter—onward to success!
Best Use
Speeches, team motivation.
Tone
Inspiring, bold.
21. What Lies Ahead
Meaning
What’s to come in the future.
Detailed Explanation
Often used in forward-thinking discussions or storytelling.
Scenario Example
We’re excited about what lies ahead for the new product line.
Best Use
Presentations, optimism.
Tone
Curious, hopeful.
22. Into the Future
Meaning
Moving beyond the present into upcoming times.
Detailed Explanation
Smooth and elegant phrase to describe future vision.
Scenario Example
Into the future, sustainability will guide all decisions.
Best Use
Vision statements, mission writing.
Tone
Aspirational, visionary.
23. As We Look to the Future
Meaning
Considering future plans and progress.
Detailed Explanation
Polished and professional, great for strategy and leadership writing.
Scenario Example
As we look to the future, our focus remains on innovation.
Best Use
Executive communication, planning.
Tone
Forward-thinking, inspiring.
24. Going Onward
Meaning
Continuing in a forward direction.
Detailed Explanation
Slightly informal but good for motivation.
Scenario Example
Thanks for the feedback—going onward with improvements!
Best Use
Team messages, casual updates.
Tone
Friendly, driven.
25. What Follows
Meaning
What happens next in a process or event.
Detailed Explanation
Simple and clear way to set expectations for the next step.
Scenario Example
Let me explain what follows after this presentation.
Best Use
Instructions, meetings.
Tone
Calm, logical.
Conclusion
Using “moving forward” is perfectly fine—but relying on it too much can make your writing or speech feel repetitive. With these 25 dynamic alternatives, you can tailor your message based on tone, purpose, or audience.
Whether you’re writing an email, delivering a speech, or leading a meeting, variety brings clarity and impact.
