abreast

Everyday

1. Abreast means side by side, facing the same way: «three abreast». tree →
2. Abreast of something means level with it: «The car drew abreast of the bus.» tree →
3. To keep abreast of news or changes means to stay up to date with them. tree →

In the lessons

In road safety lessons, cyclists are advised when to ride in single file and when two abreast is allowed (e.g. the UK Highway Code). In PE and marching, pupils walk two abreast. In formal speech, «keep abreast of» means keep informed. Phrases: «two abreast», «draw abreast», «keep abreast of».

Examples

• We walked to the museum two abreast. tree →
• The cyclists rode three abreast and blocked the lane. tree →
• The runner drew abreast of the leader on the last lap. tree →
• Dad reads the news to keep abreast of what's happening. tree →
• The ships sailed abreast across the bay. tree →
• Teachers keep abreast of new ideas in teaching. tree →
• It was drawn by twelve snow-white horses, harnessed four abreast; their trappings were flame-colored velvet, embroidered with diamonds. tree →

Note

Adverb. Say «a-BREST». «Two abreast» = two side by side: a group of 20 walking two abreast makes 10 rows (20 ÷ 2). «Keep abreast of» is formal.