oncoming

Everyday

Coming towards you or moving nearer: «oncoming traffic», «an oncoming storm». tree →

In the lessons

A key road-safety word: «Look out for oncoming traffic» before crossing; on a narrow road, cyclists and walkers face oncoming cars. In stories it builds tension: «the oncoming storm», «the oncoming army».

Examples

• Watch out for oncoming traffic when you cross. tree →
• The headlights of an oncoming car dazzled us. tree →
• Walk facing oncoming traffic when there is no pavement. tree →
• The cyclist moved over for an oncoming bus. tree →
• The sailors saw the oncoming storm. tree →
• The oncoming train blew its whistle. tree →

Note

Used only before a noun: «oncoming cars» (not «the cars are oncoming»). One word. On country roads with no pavement, walk on the side facing oncoming traffic so you can see it.