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Glite Dictionary
forward-leaning

forward-leaning

1 6.7
Ready to try new ideas and take action first
  • adjective
  • /ˈfɔrwərdˈlinɪŋ/
translation icon : proactivo
  • a more forward-leaning approach

Examples

  • Despite assumptions to the contrary, I Am Legend is more forward-leaning in this respect than The Matrix films.

    Academic text (2010)

  • So the question is whether or not the FDA has been forward leaning enough in reform so that it can encourage innovations to thrive in the US.

  • The company is adopting a forward-leaning approach to sustainability in its new policy initiatives.

  • To stay competitive, the team needs to be forward-leaning in their marketing strategies and embrace new technologies.

  • Her forward-leaning attitude during the meeting encouraged everyone to share their innovative ideas.

Synonyms

progressive
vsforward-leaning
251 4.8

Supporting new social changes in politics to make society fairer

is more about assertive strategic innovation than specifically political or social reform
forward-looking
vsforward-leaning
8 4.6

Thinking about the future and planning new ideas

is more about acting proactively and assertively in current strategy
nonconservative
vsforward-leaning
8.1

Choosing risky or bold actions instead of careful ones

is more about planned innovation and assertive strategy than sheer radical risk taking

Antonyms

conservative
∞ 4.6

Does not want big changes and likes traditional values

reactive
24 4.3

Quickly showing a strong response when something affects it

How Proactive

aggressive
248 3.6
forward-leaning
1 6.7
cautious
210 2.9
reactive
  • Specialized
2 6.1

Surface Forms

forward-leaning positive

Morphology

forward-leaning = forward + lean (transparent) = forward + lean + ing

The meaning is directly built from 'forward' + 'lean' (with the participial suffix '-ing'), where 'leaning forward' maps clearly to a proactive or assertive stance.

Etymology

Forward-leaning comes from forward 'toward the front' and leaning 'bending forward', so imagine a person who leans ahead to show they are ready to act. That's why something described as forward-leaning means being ready to move ahead and try new ideas.