Basic Details
Word: Forerunner
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: Something or someone that comes before another thing, often indicating or predicting what will come later.
Synonyms: Precursor, predecessor, harbinger
Antonyms: Successor, follower
Idioms and Phrases
- A forerunner of change: Something that signals a coming transformation. Example: "The invention of the telephone was a forerunner of change in communication."
- Forerunner to success: An early sign or indicator that success is on the way. Example: "His consistent practice was a forerunner to success in his studies."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The scientific discoveries of the 19th century were often forerunners to modern technology.
Example 2: Many consider the early films of the 1920s to be forerunners of the blockbuster movies we watch today.
Example 3: The artists unique style was a forerunner to the modern art movements of the late 20th century.
Fun Fact
The term "forerunner" comes from the Old English word "forerun," meaning to "run before." It has been used in various contexts since the 14th century to indicate something that comes ahead of another.
Famous Quote
"Innovation is the forerunner of change." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "forerunner" mean?
a) A type of flower
b) Something that comes before another thing
c) A type of fish
d) A kind of musical instrument
Answer: b) Something that comes before another thing
2. Which of these is a synonym of "forerunner"?
a) Successor
b) Precursor
c) Follower
d) Behind
Answer: b) Precursor
3. Which word is an antonym of "forerunner"?
a) Predecessor
b) Follower
c) Harbinger
d) Sign
Answer: b) Follower
4. Which sentence uses "forerunner" correctly?
a) The forerunner of the car was on display.
b) She danced like a forerunner at the party.
c) The forerunner of the book had a different title.
d) The forerunner sang beautifully.
Answer: a) The forerunner of the car was on display.
5. Which idiom means the same as "forerunner"?
a) Set the bar
b) A step ahead
c) A run for your money
d) In for a penny, in for a pound
Answer: b) A step ahead
