Word: abreast (adverb, adjective)

Associations

The word "abreast" means side by side and facing the same way. It is often used to describe people or things that are next to each other in a line or row. It can also mean staying informed about the latest news or information.

Examples:

• "The two runners ran abreast during the race." (They ran next to each other.)
• "We try to keep abreast of current events by reading the news daily." (Stay updated or informed.)
• "The soldiers marched abreast down the street." (They walked side by side.)

Synonym: "side by side" is a common synonym when talking about physical position. But "abreast" can also mean "informed," which "side by side" does not.

Substitution

Instead of "abreast," you can say:

• "side by side" when talking about physical position.
• "up to date" or "informed" when talking about knowledge or information.

For example:

• "They walked side by side."
• "She stays up to date with technology."

Deconstruction

The word "abreast" comes from the prefix "a-" meaning "on" or "in" and "breast," which refers to the chest area. So, "abreast" originally meant "at the breast" or "beside someone at chest level," which explains the idea of being side by side.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a situation where you would want to walk or stand abreast with someone?
• How do you keep yourself abreast of news or important information in your life?
• Can "abreast" be used in both physical and abstract ways? How?