fremdrift

Fremdrift (Norwegian for forward movement or progress) is a term used in physics, engineering, and everyday language to denote the act or result of moving forward. Etymology: from frem- "forward" and drift "drive" or "operation", related to Danish fremdrift and Swedish framdrift, and to the English concept of forward propulsion or progress.

In physics and engineering, fremdrift describes the net forward movement of an object produced by a propulsion system, such as a ship, aircraft, or vehicle. It is influenced by thrust, drag, and mass, and is commonly characterized by velocity and acceleration. In maritime contexts the term can refer to the thrust generated by propellers or other propulsion arrangements that drive a vessel ahead.

In a non-technical sense, fremdrift refers to progress toward a goal or project. It is used in project management and public discourse to describe how quickly tasks are completed and milestones are reached. Measurements often include percent complete, milestone achievement, burn-down or burn-up charts, and velocity in agile settings. A steady fremdrift implies momentum and effective execution, while stagnation or delays indicate risks that require intervention.

Cultural and historical usage: the concept appears in Scandinavian languages as a general word for advancement, development, or forward movement in society, technology, and science. See also progress, momentum, propulsion.