Toward vs. Towards

Attribute	Toward	Towards
Spelling	Toward	Towards
Usage	Preposition	Preposition
Meaning	In the direction of	In the direction of
Alternative Forms	N/A	Toward
British English	N/A	Yes
American English	Yes	N/A
Common Usage	Yes	Yes

Introduction

When it comes to the English language, there are often multiple ways to express the same idea. One such example is the usage of "toward" and "towards." These two words are often used interchangeably, but are they truly identical? In this article, we will explore the attributes of "toward" and "towards" to understand their similarities and differences, shedding light on their usage in different contexts.

Definition and Origin

Both "toward" and "towards" are prepositions that indicate movement in the direction of someone or something. They are used to express the idea of approaching or facing a particular direction. The primary difference lies in their origin and usage in different English-speaking regions.

"Toward" is the more common form in American English, while "towards" is predominantly used in British English. However, it is important to note that both forms are generally accepted in both regions, and the choice between them often comes down to personal preference or regional conventions.

Usage and Examples

1.Toward: "Toward" is the simpler and more straightforward form, often preferred in American English. It is used to indicate movement or direction without any additional connotations.

• She walked toward the park, enjoying the warm sunshine.
• The car swerved toward the right to avoid the oncoming traffic.
• He leaned toward her, whispering a secret in her ear.

2.Towards: "Towards" is slightly more versatile and can carry additional connotations or nuances in certain contexts. It is commonly used in British English, but also widely accepted in American English.

• She felt a sense of warmth towards her new colleagues.
• He held a positive attitude towards the upcoming challenges.
• They walked towards the sunset, hand in hand.

Regional Preferences

As mentioned earlier, "toward" is the preferred form in American English, while "towards" is more commonly used in British English. However, it is crucial to note that these preferences are not absolute, and there are exceptions in both regions.

In American English, "towards" is still widely understood and accepted, especially in formal writing or when emulating a more British style. Similarly, in British English, "toward" is also used by some speakers, particularly in informal contexts or when influenced by American English through media or global interactions.

Historical Usage

The usage of "toward" and "towards" has evolved over time, and their historical usage can provide further insights into their attributes. "Toward" has been in use since Old English, while "towards" emerged later during Middle English.

During the Middle English period, "towards" was more prevalent, but as the language evolved, "toward" gained popularity and became the dominant form in American English. This shift can be attributed to various linguistic factors and the influence of different English-speaking communities.

Contextual Considerations

While the choice between "toward" and "towards" is often a matter of personal preference or regional conventions, there are certain contextual considerations that can guide their usage.

1.Formality: In formal writing or academic contexts, "toward" is generally preferred in American English, while "towards" may be more commonly used in British English. However, this distinction is not absolute, and both forms are acceptable in formal settings.

2.Consistency: It is important to maintain consistency within a piece of writing. If you choose to use "toward" in a sentence, it is advisable to continue using "toward" throughout the text, rather than switching to "towards" intermittently.

3.Personal Preference: Ultimately, the choice between "toward" and "towards" often comes down to personal preference. Writers and speakers should use the form they are most comfortable with, as long as it aligns with the overall linguistic conventions of their intended audience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "toward" and "towards" are two prepositions that indicate movement or direction. While "toward" is more commonly used in American English and "towards" in British English, both forms are generally accepted in both regions. The choice between them often depends on personal preference, regional conventions, or the desired tone of the writing. Understanding the attributes and historical usage of these words can help writers and speakers make informed decisions when using "toward" or "towards" in different contexts.