"Toward" vs "Towards": What's the Difference?

"Toward" vs "Towards": What's the Difference?

Discover the difference between toward and towards. Learn about regional preferences, proper usage, and when to use each variation in your writing.

2 minutes
Commonly confused words

Wondering whether to use "toward" or "towards"? The good news? Both forms are correct, but there are regional preferences and style considerations to keep in mind.

Key Differences Between Toward and Towards

Here's the simple truth:

  • Toward: Preferred in American English
  • Towards: Preferred in British English and other English-speaking countries

Both words mean exactly the same thing and are completely interchangeable.

What Does Toward Mean?

"Toward" indicates:

  • Movement in the direction of something
  • Progress in relation to a goal
  • Near or around (when referring to time)
  • In relation to something or someone

What Does Towards Mean?

"Towards" carries the exact same meanings as "toward":

  • Movement in a specific direction
  • Progress toward a goal
  • Near or around (for time)
  • In relation to something or someone

Examples of Toward and Towards in Use

Region Example Context
American She walked toward the beach. Movement direction
British She walked towards the beach. Movement direction
American Working toward a solution Progress to goal
British Working towards a solution Progress to goal
American Toward the end of the day Time reference
British Towards the end of the day Time reference

Quick Tips to Remember the Difference

  • American English? Use "toward"
  • British English? Use "towards"
  • Be consistent within your document
  • Consider your audience's location
  • Both forms are correct in any context

FAQ About Toward and Towards

Q: Is one form more correct than the other? A: No, both forms are equally correct. The choice depends on regional preference.

Q: Can I mix both forms in my writing? A: While both are correct, it's better to choose one form and stick with it throughout your document for consistency.

Q: Which form should I use in professional writing? A: Consider your audience's location. For U.S. audiences, use "toward"; for British audiences, use "towards."

Conclusion

Remember: There's no wrong choice between toward and towards. The key is knowing your audience and being consistent. For American audiences, use "toward"; for British audiences, use "towards."

Other Commonly Confused Words

#Commonly confused words#Toward vs Towards

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