fast forward meaning: definition, quotations

fast forward

verb

To rapidly progress the playback of a recording.

(Of playback of a recording) to rapidly progress.

Figuratively To shift one's attention or focus toward a later point in time.

Antarctica was remote, little of value […] was at stake, and few states had the capacity to get to Antarctica or otherwise challenge the claimants. […] Fast-forward to the present, and the picture looks somewhat different.2012, Alan D. Hemmings, Donald R. Rothwell, Karen N. Scott, Antarctic Security in the Twenty-First Century, page 77:

Figuratively To advance rapidly in time.

Metallica have revealed that they plan to ‘fast-forward to the next chapter’ of working with Lady Gaga – sparking rumours of a collaborative album.2017 February 15, Andrew Trndell, “Metallica to ‘fast-forward to next chapter’ of working with Lady Gaga”, in NME, archived from the original on 26 Dec 2022:

Figuratively To accelerate.

Lippman said Crispr is an incredibly useful tool in research, allowing him to ask new questions of the tomato plants he breeds, by fast-forwarding the research process. “The amount of genetics that we’re currently able to do has at least quintupled in the last three years,” he said.2019 May 30, Karen Weintraub, “Crispr gene-editing will change the way Americans eat – here's what's coming”, in The Guardian, archived from the original on 13 Aug 2019:

noun

The feature that allows media to be fast-forwarded.

A button that causes media to be fast forwarded.

Figuratively A state of rapid advancement.

In addition to her simple, punchy opening lines, Roupenian likes to begin stories at true beginnings, like childhood or a brand-new relationship, her tales often ones of maturation in fast-forward.2019 January 22, Lauren Holmes, “If You Thought ‘Cat Person’ Was Dark, Wait Until You Read the Rest of the Book”, in The New York Times, archived from the original on 20 Feb 2020: