abreast

American  

[uh-brest] / əˈbrɛst /

adverb

1. side by side; beside each other in a line.

   They walked two abreast down the street.

2. equal to or alongside in progress, attainment, or awareness (usually followed by of orwith ).

   to keep abreast of scientific developments; keeping abreast with the times.

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abreast British  

/ əˈbrɛst /

adjective

1. alongside each other and facing in the same direction

2. up to date (with); fully conversant (with)

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Etymology

Origin of abreast

First recorded in 1590–1600; a- ¹ + breast

Example Sentences

Thomas said at a press conference after his unveiling that he had "kept abreast of Welsh politics" and was "very informed" about the country's political scene.

From BBC

The entire clan of the sphinxes followed behind, walking four abreast, padding on vast lion feet across the sand.

From Literature

For instance, sources claim Crystal Palace are among those keeping abreast of Iraola's situation heading into next season as they look to find Oliver Glasner's successor.

From BBC

At many companies there is a single person in charge of HR, which might mean that compliance alone—staying abreast of federal, state and local laws and regulations—consumes that person’s days.

From The Wall Street Journal

Kahn worked hard to keep him afloat and find new financial institutions, while Indyke kept Epstein abreast of the media fallout.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• acquainted
• informed