noun
Very common
ways
wayz
Ways (noun) means a distance, especially in the informal phrase "a ways" or "a long ways.". Example: “We still have a long ways to go before we reach the coast.”
noun
1
A distance, especially in the informal phrase "a ways" or "a long ways."
"We still have a long ways to go before we reach the coast."
"It is a ways from the village to the nearest shop."
"We drove a long ways before we found somewhere to stop."
How to use ways
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRefers to a stretch of distance, mostly in casual American speech.
When to use it
"A ways" (with the "s") is informal and mainly used in American English; British English would more often just say "a way."
Common pairings
a long ways
a ways off
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We still have a long _____ to go before we reach the coast.
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Rhymes for ways
See all rhymes for ways →Frequently asked questions
What does “ways” mean?
The word “ways” means a distance, especially in the informal phrase "a ways" or "a long ways.". In plain terms, refers to a stretch of distance, mostly in casual American speech.
How do you pronounce “ways”?
“Ways” is pronounced wayz (/weɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “ways” in a sentence?
Here is “ways” used in a sentence: “We still have a long ways to go before we reach the coast.”
What part of speech is “ways”?
“Ways” is a noun.
Is “ways” a common word?
“Ways” is a very common word in modern English.
Is "a ways" grammatically correct?
It is correct in informal and especially American English, where "a ways" means a distance, as in "we've still got a ways to go." In formal writing many prefer "a way" or "some distance," since "ways" looks plural. In casual speech, though, "a ways" is widely used and understood.
What does "a ways" mean?
"A ways" means a distance — usually a fairly long one. "It's a ways down the road" means the place is some distance away. The phrase is informal and conversational, common in American and regional English, and always refers to how far something is rather than a method or manner.
What is the difference between "a way" and "a ways"?
When talking about distance, "a way" and "a ways" mean the same thing — "a long way off" and "a long ways off" both describe something far. "A way" is more standard; "a ways" is informal. Note that "way" also means a method or route, which "ways" in this sense does not.
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