Towards or Toward: Which is the Correct Spelling?

Ever stared at “towards” and “toward,” wondering which one’s actually right? You’re not alone. These tricky spellings trip up even seasoned writers. So, let’s clear the air. This post breaks down the difference between towards or toward once and for all. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• First of all, the simple rule governing both spellings.
• Then, some examples of how to use them correctly in sentences.
• Also, common mistakes to avoid (and why they happen).
• Lastly, pro tips for remembering the difference.

The Simple Rule Governing Both Spellings

There’s really just one tiny difference between “towards” and “toward.” It all boils down to this: “Toward” is the preferred spelling in American English. “Towards,” with the “s,” is more common in British English. That’s it. Seriously.

So, if you’re writing for an American audience, stick with “toward.” Likewise, if your readers are primarily British, “towards” is your go-to. Easy, right? In addition, consistency is key. Pick one and use it throughout your writing. Don’t mix and match unless you’re deliberately quoting someone or something.

For example, an American writer would say, “He walked toward the door.” A British writer might say, “He walked towards the door.” Both are correct within their respective conventions. However, it would be jarring to see “He walked toward the door” in a British publication or vice versa. Therefore, knowing your audience is crucial.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure which spelling to use, consider your target audience. If you’re writing for a global audience, “toward” is generally a safer bet, as it’s more widely accepted. Alternatively, you can simply use Arvin.

Just ask Arvin, “Is this correct?”. Arvin, our AI-powered browser extension, can instantly check your grammar and spelling, ensuring you always use the right form. It’s like having a personal editor right there as you write. No more second-guessing.

Examples of How to Use Them Correctly in Sentences

Now, let’s see toward or towards in action. Seeing them in context makes the difference crystal clear. First, “toward” (American English):

• She ran toward the finish line.
• The cat crept toward the mouse.
• He leaned toward his friend for support.
• Our company is moving toward a more sustainable future.

Next, “towards” (British English):

• She ran towards the finish line.
• The cat crept towards the mouse.
• He leaned towards his friend for support.
• Our company is moving towards a more sustainable future.

As you can see, the sentences are exactly the same. The only change is the spelling. Moreover, the meaning remains identical. Therefore, it’s all about knowing your audience and sticking to their preferred spelling.

For instance, imagine you’re writing a blog post for a US-based website. In that case, use “toward.” On the other hand, if you’re writing for a UK-based publication, “towards” is the way to go. Additionally, remember that consistency is paramount. Don’t switch back and forth between the two spellings within the same piece of writing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (and Why They Happen)

Even though the rule is simple, “toward” and “towards” still trip people up. One common mistake is mixing the spellings. For example, someone might write, “He walked towards the door,” and later, “She ran toward the wall.” This inconsistency looks unprofessional. So, choose one and stick with it.

In addition, another issue is using the wrong spelling for your audience. Imagine a US-based company using “towards” in their marketing materials. It might seem minor, but it can affect their credibility. Therefore, always consider your target audience. Furthermore, if you’re unsure, it’s always better to play it safe and use “toward,” as it’s more widely accepted.

Why do these mistakes happen? Often, it’s simply a matter of carelessness. People might not be paying close attention to their spelling. Or, they might not be aware of the difference between American and British English conventions.

Pro Tips for Remembering the Difference

Okay, so you know the rule. But how do you remember it? Here are a few tricks:

• Think “American TOWARD”: The “toward” spelling is shorter, just like the word “American.” This little association can help you recall the correct usage.
• Visualize the “s”: See that extra “s” in “towards”? Imagine it as a little flag waving the banner of British English. This visual cue can help you remember that “towards” is more common across the pond.
• Use Arvin: Seriously, this is the easiest way. Arvin, our AI-powered browser extension, is your grammar guardian. It catches spelling errors, including “toward” vs. “towards,” in real time. Just install it, and you’re good to go. It’s like having a proofreader on speed dial.

In short, these tips, combined with a little practice, will have you using “toward” and “towards” correctly in no time. No more second-guessing. No more embarrassing mistakes. Just clear, confident writing.

Ready to Conquer “Towards” and “Toward” with Arvin?

The difference between towards or toward is simple: American English favors “toward,” while British English leans towards “towards.” Knowing your audience is key. And with a few memory tricks, you’ll master these spellings in no time.

Here’s a quick recap on towards or toward:

• Firstly, toward is the preferred spelling in American English.
• Secondly, towards is more common in British English.
• Lastly, consistency is crucial. Choose one and stick with it.

Now, you can write with confidence, knowing you’ve got the “toward/towards” conundrum sorted. And to make things even easier, Arvin is here to help. Our AI-powered browser extension acts as your personal grammar guru, catching tricky spellings and other errors in real-time. It’s like having a safety net for your writing, so you can focus on what matters most: getting your message across clearly and effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which is correct, toward or towards?

Both are correct, but their usage depends on your target audience. “Toward” is the standard spelling in American English, while “towards” is preferred in British English.

Is it toward school or towards school?

In American English, it’s “toward school.” In British English, both “toward school” and “towards school” are acceptable, though “towards school” is more common.

Why do Americans say toward instead of towards?

American English tends to favor shorter spellings. “Toward” is simply a shorter version of “towards.” It’s a matter of convention and linguistic evolution.

Is it toward or towards academic writing?

Again, it depends on your target audience. If you’re writing for an American academic journal, use “toward.” If it’s for a British publication, “towards” is generally preferred. If you’re unsure, “toward” is a safer bet, as it’s more widely accepted.