Towards Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
towards
[tษหwษหrdz ]
Definitions
direction
In the direction of; with regard to.
Synonyms
in relation to, in the direction of, to.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| towards |
Used to indicate movement in the direction of something or someone. It can also suggest a figurative movement or feeling. Can be used for both physical and abstract directions.
|
| in the direction of |
Indicates physical movement pointing or aiming towards a specific point. It's a more explicit phrase for indicating a physical pathway.
|
| to |
Used in many contexts as a preposition to indicate moving toward a specific point or reaching someone or something. It is very general and commonly used in everyday speech.
|
| in relation to |
Used when comparing or connecting two or more items, concepts, or situations. It often appears in formal or academic contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- He turned towards the door.
- She felt a warm feeling towards him.
- I have a positive attitude towards this project.
progress
In relation to the point or direction of.
Synonyms
closer to, in the direction of.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| towards |
This word typically implies moving in the direction of something or someone. It can be used both physically and metaphorically and is quite versatile.
|
| in the direction of |
This phrase is often used to describe movement or orientation facing a specific point. It is more formal and descriptive.
|
| closer to |
This phrase suggests a movement that reduces the distance between two points. It's often used when comparing the relative distance between two objects or places.
|
Examples of usage
- He made progress towards his goal.
- The company is moving towards a more sustainable future.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Grammar
- In English grammar, 'towards' is often viewed as an adverb or a preposition, depending on its usage in a sentence.
- Ample usage exists in both British and American English, although 'toward' is more common in American texts.
- The term can be placed at the beginning or the end of a clause, showing flexibility in sentence structure.
Cultural Nuances
- In British English, 'towards' is more frequently used, while in the U.S., 'toward' dominates.
- The word reflects not just physical movement, but also intentions, such as working 'towards' a goal, illustrating a plan for progress.
- Use of 'towards' can convey a sense of movement or intention that integrates both physical and abstract ideas.
Philosophy
- The concept of 'towards' plays a significant role in discussions about goal-setting and personal development.
- Philosophers often discuss 'towards' in terms of existential directionโhow one's choices lead them towards their ultimate purpose.
- In interpersonal relationships, moving
Origin of 'towards'
Main points about word origin
- 'Towards' comes from the Old English word 'toweard', meaning 'in the direction of'.
- It has evolved through Middle English from 'toward' to 'towards', highlighting its flexible usage in modern English.
- The word can be used to indicate physical direction, emotional feelings, or intentions.
The word 'towards' originated from the Middle English term 'toward,' which was a combination of the preposition 'to' and the Old English word 'weard,' meaning 'in the direction of.' Over time, the spelling evolved to 'towards' in the 16th century. The usage of 'towards' has remained consistent in English language, serving as a preposition and adverb to indicate direction and progress.