Toward or Towards | Difference & Example Sentences
Toward and towards are prepositions that can be used to mean ‘in the direction of’, ‘in relation to’, or ‘in contribution to’. While the words are used interchangeably, there is some regional preference:
- In UK English, ‘towards’ (with an ‘s’) is more commonly used.
- In US English, ‘toward’ (without an ‘s’) is more commonly used.
Natasha has a positive attitude toward(s) life.
This essay will count toward(s) your final grade.
Ronan contributed toward(s) the relief fund.
However, some style guides have specific rules about which you should use. Both AP style and Chicago style favor toward (without an “s”).
‘Work toward’ or ‘work towards’
Work toward(s) is a phrase meaning ‘try to achieve’. It means the same whether written with or without the ‘s’.
To end this conflict, both parties need to come together and work toward(s) peace.
‘Leaning toward’ or ‘leaning towards’
Leaning toward(s) is an expression meaning ‘inclined to one view or position rather than another’. It can be written either with or without the ‘s’.
Candice is now leaning toward(s) going to Italy for her holiday.
Other interesting language articles
If you want to know more about commonly confused words, definitions, and differences between US and UK spellings, make sure to check out some of our other language articles with explanations, examples, and quizzes.
Confused words
Definitions
US vs. UK spellings
Cite this Scribbr article
If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the ‘Cite this Scribbr article’ button to automatically add the citation to our free Reference Generator.
Ryan, E. (2022, October 10). Toward or Towards | Difference & Example Sentences. Scribbr. Retrieved 18 November 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/uk-vs-us/towards-or-toward/
