Southward: meaning, definitions and examples
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southward
[ˈsaʊθwərd ]
Definitions
direction
In a southward direction; towards the south.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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southward |
Used mainly in written or formal contexts to describe movement or direction towards the south.
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southwards |
Primarily used in British English, generally in casual speech or writing to indicate movement towards the south.
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Examples of usage
- The birds flew southward for the winter.
- The river flows southward towards the ocean.
position
Situated or facing towards the south.
Examples of usage
- The southward side of the mountain gets more sunlight.
- The southward window has a beautiful view of the valley.
geography
The direction or side towards the south.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
southward |
Use 'southward' when referring to movement or direction towards the south. It's appropriate for formal contexts and descriptions involving travel or geographical directions.
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south |
Use 'south' when referring to a general direction, location, or place. It can be used in both casual and formal contexts.
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Examples of usage
- We headed in the southward direction.
- The map indicated the southward side of the city.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 'Southward' originates from the Old English word 'sūðweard', which directly refers to the direction south.
- The English language adopted the suffix '-ward' to indicate direction, which is common in many words like 'northward' or 'toward'.
- The word has been in use since at least the 9th century, making it a long-standing part of directional vocabulary.
Geography
- Moving southward generally means approaching warmer climates, as many of the Earth’s most temperate regions lie to the south.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, southward travel can lead you to diverse ecosystems, including deserts and tropical rainforests.
- Countries such as Mexico and Brazil are found directly south of the United States, showcasing cultural diversity when traveling southward.
History
- During the 19th century, the term southward was often associated with the migration patterns of people heading toward warmer states in the U.S.
- In ancient civilizations, southward routes were crucial for trade, connecting the north with southern territories rich in resources.
- Northward explorations in the Age of Discovery often led to eventual southward expeditions as explorers sought new trade routes.
Navigation
- Navigation systems utilize ‘southward’ to give directional guidance in exploring, charting, and connecting various locations.
- In navigation using compasses, southward is an essential reference point for determining one’s path relative to the Earth's magnetic poles.
- Sailors historically relied on southward movement during voyages to reach tropical islands and establish trade routes.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, moving southward is often associated with optimism, warmth, and adventure, reflecting the desire for a better climate.
- In literature and poetry, southward journeys often symbolize personal growth and the pursuit of dreams.
- Regional genres like Southern Gothic in literature enrich narratives that often explore lives in the southern parts of the U.S.
Translations
🇵🇹 para o sul
🇮🇳 दक्षिण की ओर
🇩🇪 nach Süden
🇮🇩 ke arah selatan
🇺🇦 на південь
🇵🇱 na południe
🇯🇵 南へ向かって
🇫🇷 vers le sud
🇪🇸 hacia el sur
🇹🇷 güneye doğru
🇰🇷 남쪽으로
🇸🇦 نحو الجنوب
🇨🇿 na jih
🇸🇰 na juh
🇨🇳 向南
🇸🇮 proti jugu
🇮🇸 suður
🇰🇿 оңтүстікке қарай
🇬🇪 სამხრეთისკენ
🇦🇿 cənuba doğru
🇲🇽 hacia el sur