The Difference Between “Toward” and “Towards”

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on understanding the difference between “toward” and “towards.” In this article, we will provide clear explanations, examples, and a helpful table highlighting key distinctions between these two commonly confused words.

What is “Toward”?

“Toward” is a preposition that denotes direction or movement in a particular direction. It implies a sense of aim, intention, or orientation.

Examples of “Toward”

1. John walked toward the park, eager to spend the sunny afternoon outdoors.
2. Jane made small steps toward her goal of becoming a successful entrepreneur.
3. The car veered toward the right to avoid the pedestrian.

Uses of “Toward”

1. “Toward” is used to indicate physical or metaphorical movement or direction.
2. It often implies a purpose, goal, or target.
3. It can suggest an alignment or approaching event.

What is “Towards”?

“Towards” is simply an alternative spelling of “toward.” The use of “towards” instead of “toward” is more prevalent in British English.

Examples of “Towards”

1. The company is working towards launching a new product line.
2. They have a positive attitude towards teamwork.
3. Sam took a step towards self-improvement by enrolling in an online course.

Uses of “Towards”

1. Unlike “toward,” “towards” is mostly used in British English.
2. It is an accepted variant spelling in American English as well.
3. “Towards” shares the same meanings and usage as “toward.”

Differences between “Toward” and “Towards”

Difference Area	Toward	Towards
Usage in American English	Commonly used	Accepted variant spelling
Usage in British English	Less common	More common
Formality	Slightly more formal	No significant difference
Frequency of use	More frequently used	Less frequently used
Regional preferences	Used widely across the US	More prevalent in the UK
Verb agreement	Can be used with both singular and plural subjects	Same as “toward”
Written vs. spoken	Used in both written and spoken language	Same as “toward”
Academic usage	More preferred in academic writing	No significant difference
Frequency of use in literature	Commonly found in literary works	Same as “toward”
Influence of dialects	Used across various dialects of English	Same as “toward”

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the primary difference between “toward” and “towards” lies in their usage and acceptance in different English dialects. “Toward” is more commonly used in American English, while “towards” is favored in British English. However, both words convey the same meaning and can be used interchangeably in most contexts without altering the overall message of a sentence.

Knowledge Check:

1. Which one is an accepted variant spelling in American English?

a) Toward b) Towards

Answer: b) Towards

2. Which one is more commonly used in British English?

a) Toward b) Towards

Answer: b) Towards

3. Is there a significant difference in formality between “toward” and “towards”?

a) Yes b) No

Answer: b) No

4. Can “toward” and “towards” be used interchangeably in most contexts?

a) Yes b) No

Answer: a) Yes

5. Which one is more preferred in academic writing?

a) Toward b) Towards

Answer: a) Toward

6. Which one is more widely used across the US?

a) Toward b) Towards

Answer: a) Toward

7. Can both “toward” and “towards” be used with singular and plural subjects?

a) Yes b) No

Answer: a) Yes

8. Is there any significant difference in the frequency of use between “toward” and “towards”?

a) Yes b) No

Answer: b) No

9. Which one is more commonly found in literary works?

a) Toward b) Towards

Answer: a) Toward

10. Which one is more prevalent in the UK?

a) Toward b) Towards

Answer: b) Towards

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