Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
Vanguard
noun
/ VAN-gard /
Medium
Meaning
The leading group or forefront of a movement, development, or field; the frontmost unit in an advancing army
Origin / Etymology
Old French avant-garde — avant (before) + garde (guard); literally 'advance guard'
Synonyms
Forefront
Pioneer
Spearhead
Avant-garde
Leading edge
Antonyms
Rearguard
Follower
Laggard
Straggler
Example Sentence
"India aspires to be in the vanguard of clean energy transition, targeting 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030."
🎯 UPSC Usage
Strong essay and GS3 word. Use when describing a country, institution, or individual at the forefront of change — especially in technology, climate action, maritime security, or international governance. Adds precision to arguments about India's leadership ambitions.
Relevant Subjects
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