Forward vs. Forwards — What's the Difference?

Forward is often used in American English to indicate a direction toward the front or a movement in advance. It can relate to time, place, or movement, suggesting progression or advancement. For example, in a technical context, "forward thinking" denotes a proactive approach to future challenges, whereas in sports, "move forward" means advancing towards the goal. On the other hand, forwards is more commonly used in British English but serves a similar purpose. It emphasizes movement in a forward direction, whether literally, as in moving towards a point ahead, or figuratively, as in thinking about the future. Despite this preference, the distinction is not rigid, and usage can overlap based on personal or regional preference.

The choice between forward and forwards can also reflect formality, with "forward" appearing more in written and formal contexts due to its brevity. For example, in business emails or official documents, "forward" might be preferred for its succinctness. Conversely, "forwards" might be chosen for emphasis or to match a more conversational tone. In informal speech or in contexts where rhythm and emphasis are desired, "forwards" can add a stylistic nuance, subtly differentiating the meaning or tone of a sentence.

In digital communication, the term "forward" is universally used to refer to the action of sending an email or message previously received to another recipient. Here, the usage of "forwards" would be unusual, highlighting how specific contexts can dictate the preference for one form over the other.