• 2-minute read
• 7th September 2023

Toward or Towards | Spelling Tips

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.

As a Proposition of Relation

This use of toward(s) indicates a relationship.

As a Preposition of Position

This use of toward(s) indicates relative place or position.

As a Preposition of Purpose

This use of toward(s) indicates purpose in an action.

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.

English spelling can be tricky, so if you’d like our experts to check your writing, just get in touch!