proceeding

"Proceeding" is a versatile word that works as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it describes the act of moving forward or continuing. As a noun (often used in the plural — "proceedings"), it refers to a series of events or formal actions, especially in legal or official contexts. Here are the most common senses.

1verbmoving forward / continuing

When you are 'proceeding', you are moving forward or continuing with something — an action, a journey, or a plan. Think of it as a more formal way of saying 'going ahead' or 'carrying on'.

everyday language, formal contexts · Modern, widely used

After the short break, the meeting proceeded as planned.

Please proceed to the nearest exit in case of an emergency.

She finished her introduction and then proceeded to explain the main topic.

2verbtaking a next step or action

You can use 'proceed' to describe moving from one step to the next — especially when following a process or set of instructions. It signals that something comes after something else.

instructions, business, everyday language · Modern, widely used

Once you have filled in the form, proceed to the next page.

The doctor examined the patient and then proceeded to recommend a treatment.

We cannot proceed until everyone has agreed on the plan.

3nouna legal or official process

As a noun — almost always plural: 'proceedings' — it refers to the formal steps or actions taken in a legal case or official event. Think of a court trial: everything that happens there, from start to finish, is called 'the proceedings'.

law, formal/official contexts · Modern, widely used

The legal proceedings against the company lasted for two years.

The judge asked everyone to be quiet so the proceedings could begin.

She was not allowed to attend the disciplinary proceedings.

4nounthe events of a meeting or gathering

In a broader sense, 'proceedings' can refer to everything that happens during a formal event — like a conference, ceremony, or official meeting. It is the full record or sequence of what took place.

academic, business, formal events · Modern, widely used

The proceedings of the annual conference were published in a report.

Everyone watched the opening proceedings of the ceremony with great interest.

The proceedings were interrupted when the fire alarm went off.