Toward vs. Towards – Which is Correct?
The words towards and toward are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences in usage based on regional preferences. This article explores the contexts in which each word is correct, providing examples to clarify their proper use.
Towards vs. Toward – Which is Correct?
Both towards and toward are correct, but their usage can depend on regional preferences. Towards is more commonly used in British English, while toward is preferred in American English. Despite the slight variation, both words convey a similar meaning of direction or movement in relation to something.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Towards | Common in British English | She walked towards the park. |
| Toward | Common in American English | He ran toward the finish line. |
How to Use Towards
Use towards when writing in British English or when you wish to follow regional conventions that prefer this term. It is generally used to indicate direction or movement.
Example 1: The boy moved towards the door when he heard a noise.
Example 2: She leaned towards her friend for support.
How to Use Toward
Use toward in American English contexts, where it is the preferred form. Like towards, it also indicates direction or movement but is often used in informal scenarios.
Example 1: They headed toward the mountains for the weekend.
Example 2: The cat moved toward its food bowl eagerly.
Conclusion
In summary, both towards and toward serve as correct terms depending on the regional dialect. Understanding when to use each form can help enhance clarity in both writing and conversation.
