English spelling can sometimes vary depending on the country using English as its main language. Toward and towards are one such example. Toward tends to be used in American and Canadian English, and towards is used in British and Australian English. Both spellings, toward and towards, are becoming equally acceptable in British and American English, but it’s important that you’re consistent in your use of one or the other. Don’t mix them. There are other words that are spelled differently according to which English dialect is being used.
How to Use Toward and Towards
Toward(s) is a preposition, and it can be used in four different ways.
As a Preposition of Movement
This use of toward(s) indicates movement in a particular direction.
The girl kept glancing toward(s) her phone.
There has been a trend toward(s) bigger portions at mealtimes.
As a Proposition of Relation
This use of toward(s) indicates a relationship.
My new neighbors have been very friendly toward(s) me.
She felt a lot of anger toward(s) her sister.
As a Preposition of Position
This use of toward(s) indicates relative place or position.
Now it’s spring, we’re getting toward(s) much lighter evenings.
My favorite plants are coming toward(s) their flowering season.
As a Preposition of Purpose
This use of toward(s) indicates purpose in an action.
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Your coursework assessment counts toward(s) your final grade.
You can donate toward(s) our charity fund by card or by post.
Toward and Towards: Meaning
You can see from the examples above that toward and towards mean several very similar things:
- In the direction of.
- In relation to someone, something, or somewhere.
- Near to, around, or just before a time or place.
- For the purpose of achieving something.
Summary
Toward and towards both have the same meaning. In American English, toward is the most used form of the word and in British English, towards is the most used form. Both spellings are becoming equally acceptable in American and British English. It’s important that you’re consistent in your use of one or the other.
Toward(s) is a preposition that describes where or when something or someone is in relation to something or someone else.
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