South: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe direction or location related to a reference point, often in terms of geography or travel.

• We need to head south if we want to reach the nearest town.
• The river flows south towards the ocean.

Describes something that is located in or originates from the south. Often used to refer to regions, cultures, or specific areas within a country.

• She has a charming southern accent.
• Southern cuisine is known for its rich flavors and comfort food.

A more formal or technical way to describe a direction towards the south, often used in weather reports and navigation.

• The ship maintained a southerly course despite the strong winds.
• We expect southerly winds to bring warmer temperatures.

This word denotes the direction or area toward the Earth's South Pole, and it can be general or specific.

• They traveled south for the winter
• The birds are migrating towards the south

This phrase is more formal and typically used in geographical or administrative contexts to denote a significant area within the south of a country, state, or larger region.

• The southern region of the country has a different climate
• Economic development is booming in the southern region

This phrase specifies an area or section that is located in the south of a larger whole. It is used when talking about subdivisions of larger places.

• The southern part of the city is known for its parks
• We explored the southern part of the island

Refers to the southern part of a specific area or country.

• He lives in the south of France
• The south of the city is known for its historic architecture

Refers specifically to the coalition of southern states that seceded from the United States during the Civil War.

• The Confederacy fought against the Union in the Civil War
• Historians often study the Confederacy to understand its impact on American history

Refers to the specific states located in the southern region of the United States, often used in historical or political contexts.

• The Southern states have a unique cultural heritage
• The population of the Southern states is growing rapidly

Use this term in a geographical or more general sense to refer to the direction opposite of north, or to describe areas located in the bottom half of a country or continent.

• He traveled south for the winter
• The city lies in the south of France

This term is often used to describe nations with lower industrialization, lower standards of living, and lower Human Development Index (HDI) compared to more developed countries. It is generally a neutral term but acknowledges a certain level of socio-economic challenge.

• Many developing countries are working towards improving their healthcare systems
• Education is a priority in developing countries

This term specifies countries located entirely or mostly in the Southern Hemisphere, the half of Earth south of the Equator.

• Southern hemisphere nations like Australia and Brazil experience summer when it's winter in the northern hemisphere
• Many southern hemisphere nations have diverse ecosystems