✅ Toward
The standard spelling in the United States and Canada.
✅ Towards
The standard spelling in the United Kingdom and Australia.
If you have ever paused while writing an email or an essay to wonder if you should add an “s” to the end of toward, you are not alone. This is one of the most common questions in English writing. The short answer is simple: both are correct. They mean exactly the same thing and are interchangeable prepositions.
The only difference lies in geography. Your choice depends entirely on which side of the Atlantic Ocean you—or your audience—are located. Understanding this subtle distinction will help you write with more confidence and polish.
The Regional Rule: American vs. British English
Language evolves differently in different places. Over the centuries, English speakers in North America drifted toward one preference, while speakers in the UK drifted towards another. Neither is grammatically superior, but following the norms of your region makes your writing look professional.
🇺🇸 American English
In the United States and Canada, toward (without the “s”) is the dominant form. If you use “towards” in an American school or publication, it isn’t technically an error, but it might look slightly out of place to a native reader.
Example: “He walked toward the door.”
🇬🇧 British English
In the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, towards (with the “s”) is much more common. While you will occasionally see “toward” in British texts, the version with the “s” is heavily preferred in everyday usage.
Example: “He walked towards the door.”
Usage Examples in Context
To see how these words function in real sentences, look at the examples below. Notice that changing the word does not change the meaning of the sentence at all.
Sentences Using “Toward” (US Preference)
- The company is moving toward a more sustainable future.
- She felt a surge of kindness toward the stranger.
- Please direct your attention toward the screen.
Sentences Using “Towards” (UK Preference)
- The government is working towards a solution.
- He ran towards the bus stop but missed it.
- This contribution goes towards your final grade.
Does This Apply to Other Words?
Yes, this pattern appears in several other directional words in English. The “s” is generally essentially a British directional marker, while American English tends to drop it for a cleaner look.
| Word Pair | US Preference | UK Preference |
|---|---|---|
| Forward / Forwards | Forward | Forwards |
| Backward / Backwards | Backward | Backwards |
| Upward / Upwards | Upward | Upwards |
| Downward / Downwards | Downward | Downwards |
Note on Adjectives: Even in British English, when you use these words as adjectives (describing a noun), you typically drop the “s”. For example, everyone says “a backward glance” or “a forward motion,” regardless of where they live.
Consistency is Key
The most important rule here is not about geography, but about consistency. If you start your article using toward, you should stick with it until the end. Switching back and forth between “toward” and “towards” in the same document looks messy and careless.
Writer’s Pro Tip
Check your Style Guide. If you are writing for a specific publication, university, or company, they likely have a preference. Associated Press (AP) style, which is standard for journalism in the US, insists on toward.
Writing is about communicating clearly. Whether you choose the American toward or the British towards, your reader will understand you perfectly. Pick the one that matches your region or your audience, and write without worry.
