toward
tuh-WAWD
Toward (preposition) means In the direction of a place, person, or thing. Example: “The cat crept slowly toward the bird sitting on the fence.”
preposition
1
In the direction of a place, person, or thing.
"The cat crept slowly toward the bird sitting on the fence."
"Clouds drifted toward the hills as the wind picked up."
"She walked toward the exit."
2
In relation to, or with regard to a feeling or attitude directed at someone.
"Her attitude toward her neighbours has become much friendlier over the years."
"I feel very grateful toward everyone who helped me move house."
"He has always felt warmly toward his old teacher."
3
For the purpose of achieving or contributing to something.
"Each month she saves a little toward a holiday with her friends."
"Everyone in the village gave money toward the new playground."
"They put the money toward a new car."
How to use toward
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishIn the direction of, or contributing to, something.
UK vs US
Both "toward" and "towards" are correct; American English favors "toward," while British English favors "towards."
Easily confused with
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The cat crept slowly _____ the bird sitting on the fence.
Etymology
From Old English tōweard, formed from to plus the suffix -ward, meaning "in the direction of."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for toward
See all rhymes for toward →Frequently asked questions
What does “toward” mean?
The word “toward” means in the direction of a place, person, or thing. In plain terms, in the direction of, or contributing to, something.
How do you pronounce “toward”?
“Toward” is pronounced tuh-WAWD (/tɔɹd/ in IPA).
How do you use “toward” in a sentence?
Here is “toward” used in a sentence: “She walked toward the exit.”
What is another word for “toward”?
Words with a similar meaning to “toward” include coming, in the offing and proximate.
What is the opposite of “toward”?
The opposite of “toward” — its antonyms — are away from, froward, fromward and untoward.
What part of speech is “toward”?
“Toward” is a preposition.
Where does the word “toward” come from?
The word “toward” comes from Old English. From Old English tōweard, formed from to plus the suffix -ward, meaning "in the direction of.".
Is “toward” a common word?
“Toward” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between toward and towards?
There is no difference in meaning — both mean 'in the direction of.' The distinction is purely regional: 'toward' is preferred in American English, while 'towards' is more common in British English. Either is correct, but keep one form consistent throughout a single piece of writing.
Is it toward or towards?
Both are correct. American writers and publications generally favour 'toward,' while British ones favour 'towards.' Neither spelling is more proper than the other, so simply choose the form that matches your audience or house style, and then use it consistently rather than switching between the two.
What is an example of toward in a sentence?
'She walked toward the door,' 'He leaned toward me to whisper,' and 'Their attitude toward the plan was positive.' In each case, toward points to the direction of a place, person, or thing — sometimes a physical movement, sometimes a figurative leaning or orientation.
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