set forward
1. To move something to or place something at the front or foreground. A noun or pronoun can be used between "set" and "forward." I set the box forward, allowing Ms. Dawkins to stand up on it and get everyone's attention. I set forward the picture of our wedding day on the mantelpiece.
2. To suggest, offer, or propose something for consideration. A noun or pronoun can be used between "set" and "forward." The newly elected mayor has set forward a number of plans for dealing with the housing crisis in the city. The new administration has adopted a policy based on principles set forward by the previous president.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
set something forward
1. to move something to a more forward position. Please set the chair forward a little bit. It is in the walkway. If you set the vase forward, it will show up better against the dark background.
2. to reset a timepiece to a later time. You are supposed to set your clock forward at this time of year. Did you set your watch forward?
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
set forward
Also, set ahead. Turn a clock to a later time, as in For daylight-saving time we set the clocks forward. [1600s]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.