Toward or Towards? Both Are Right!
Here’s the short answer: both “toward” and “towards” are correct. Yep, you can use either one. But there IS a difference in where people use them, and that’s what we’re going to talk about.
The Quick Rule
American English: Usually “toward” (no S)
British English: Usually “towards” (with S)
That’s basically it. You’re not wrong either way, but if you’re writing for an American audience, stick with “toward.” If you’re writing for a British audience, use “towards.”
Examples of Both
American style:
- We walked toward the store.
- She’s working toward her degree.
- The company is moving toward a new direction.
British style:
- We walked towards the store.
- She’s working towards her degree.
- The company is moving towards a new direction.
See? Same meaning, just different spelling preferences.
Other Words That Follow This Pattern
It’s not just “toward/towards.” English has a bunch of words like this:
- Afterward / Afterwards
- Forward / Forwards
- Backward / Backwards
- Upward / Upwards
- Downward / Downwards
Same deal – Americans drop the S, Brits keep it.
Does It Ever Matter?
Not really! Both versions mean exactly the same thing. Nobody’s going to misunderstand you if you use the “wrong” version for your location.
BUT if you’re writing something formal (like a paper or a business document), it’s good to be consistent. Pick one and stick with it throughout your writing.
What About Canada and Australia?
Canada: Mix of both, but leans more toward American English (so “toward”)
Australia: Follows British English (so “towards”)
Which One Should You Use?
Ask yourself:
- Who’s going to read this?
- What kind of English do they use?
- What have you been using in the rest of your writing?
If you’re unsure, just pick one and be consistent. Really, nobody’s going to care that much.
Fun Fact
Historically, “towards” is actually older! Americans started dropping the S in the 1800s to simplify things. Classic American move – making stuff shorter and easier.
In Google Searches
If you Google them both, you’ll find:
- “Toward” gets more searches in the US
- “Towards” gets more searches in the UK, India, and Australia
This backs up what we already know – it’s regional!
Grammar Check Tools
Most grammar checkers (like Grammarly or Microsoft Word) won’t flag either one as wrong. They might suggest being consistent if you mix them up in the same document, but that’s it.
Common Phrases
Some phrases you’ll hear all the time:
- Working toward/towards a goal
- Moving toward/towards the future
- Heading toward/towards the exit
- Leaning toward/towards an option
- Progress toward/towards completion
All good with or without the S!
The Bottom Line
This is one of those rare cases where English gives you options and both are totally fine. Don’t stress about it.
Just remember:
- Americans prefer “toward”
- Brits prefer “towards”
- Both are correct
- Be consistent in your writing
That’s really all there is to it. Use whichever sounds better to your ear, or match whatever style guide you’re following. Easy!
One More Thing
If you’re taking a test (like the SAT or TOEFL), both are accepted. The test makers know both versions exist and won’t mark you wrong for using either one.
So relax! This is one English rule that’s actually pretty forgiving. Pick your favorite and move on to the trickier stuff.