The English language, with its rich history and evolving nature, often presents subtle nuances that can trip up even seasoned writers. Among these linguistic curiosities are prepositions that appear to be interchangeable but carry distinct preferences and historical roots. Understanding these distinctions can elevate the clarity and professionalism of your writing.
One such pair that frequently causes confusion is “toward” and “towards.” While often used interchangeably in modern English, their origins and regional preferences offer a fascinating glimpse into linguistic evolution. This article aims to demystify these two forms, providing clear guidance on their usage and helping you make informed choices in your own writing.
The Etymology and Evolution of “Toward” and “Towards”
The divergence between “toward” and “towards” is rooted in the historical development of the English language. Both words evolved from the Old English term “toweard,” meaning “in the direction of.” The addition of the ‘s’ is a common feature in the formation of adverbs and prepositions in English, often arising from older genitive or dative case endings that have since become fossilized.
Historically, “towards” was more prevalent in British English, while “toward” gained traction in American English. This regional split is not absolute, and both forms are understood and used in both dialects. The standardization of dictionaries and style guides has, however, created clearer preferences in formal writing.
This evolution illustrates a broader trend in English where older forms sometimes persist alongside newer, sometimes abbreviated, variations. The ‘s’ in “towards” can be seen as a vestigial grammatical marker that has been retained by some speakers and writers, while others have opted for the simpler, unadorned form.
Understanding the Grammatical Function
Both “toward” and “towards” function primarily as prepositions, indicating direction, movement, or approach. They are used to show that something or someone is moving or progressing in a particular direction or is approaching a specific point in time or space.
For example, one might say, “The ship sailed toward the horizon,” or “She walked towards the exit.” In these instances, the preposition clearly denotes the direction of movement.
They can also be used figuratively to indicate a change in attitude or a development. “His attitude toward the project shifted” or “Progress toward peace is slow” are common examples of this figurative use.
Regional Preferences: British vs. American English
The most significant differentiating factor between “toward” and “towards” in contemporary usage is regional preference. British English generally favors “towards,” while American English leans towards “toward.” This distinction is a well-established convention in many style guides for these respective dialects.
For instance, a British newspaper might consistently use “towards” in its articles, referring to “developments towards a solution.” Conversely, an American publication would more likely use “toward,” stating “steps toward a solution.”
However, it is crucial to note that this is a tendency, not a strict rule, and exceptions abound. Many writers in both regions use both forms, and neither is considered incorrect by the other dialect’s speakers. The key is consistency within a single piece of writing.
Style Guide Recommendations
Major style guides often provide specific recommendations for writers. The Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, widely used in journalism, prefers “toward” without the ‘s’. This preference aims for conciseness and a modern feel.
The Chicago Manual of Style, a prominent guide for book publishing, also generally favors “toward.” These authoritative sources influence countless writers and editors, reinforcing the prevalence of the shorter form in formal American contexts.
In contrast, British style guides, such as The Guardian and The Times style guides, typically recommend “towards.” This preference reflects the enduring tradition of British English usage. Adhering to the relevant style guide is paramount for professional writing.
Interchangeability in Modern Usage
Despite regional preferences and style guide recommendations, “toward” and “towards” are largely interchangeable in everyday conversation and informal writing. Most native English speakers will understand both forms without confusion.
If you are writing a personal email or a casual social media post, the choice between the two is unlikely to cause any misunderstanding. The meaning remains clear regardless of which form you select.
This interchangeability highlights the dynamic nature of language, where distinct forms can converge in meaning and function over time, especially in less formal settings.
The Case for Conciseness: Favoring “Toward”
Many modern style guides advocate for “toward” based on the principle of conciseness. The ‘s’ in “towards” is often considered superfluous, adding no extra meaning or clarity to the word.
The argument is that shorter words are generally easier to read and process. Eliminating the ‘s’ streamlines the word and aligns with a broader trend in English to simplify language where possible.
Consider the sentence: “He moved toward the door.” Adding the ‘s’ to make it “He moved towards the door” does not alter the fundamental meaning or impact of the sentence. The shorter form is simply more direct.
The Argument for Tradition: Embracing “Towards”
Conversely, some argue that “towards” carries a certain traditional weight and formality. The presence of the ‘s’ can evoke a sense of established usage, particularly within British literary traditions.
For writers aiming for a specific tone or adhering to British English conventions, “towards” might be the preferred choice. It connects the writing to a lineage of established literary and grammatical practice.
This perspective suggests that linguistic conservatism, in this instance, can lend a piece of writing a particular gravitas or elegance that the simpler form might lack for some readers.
Usage in Specific Contexts
In academic writing, particularly in fields that originate from or have strong ties to British scholarship, “towards” might be more commonly encountered. This can sometimes influence the preferred style within those specific disciplines.
However, as American academic institutions and publishing have grown in global influence, the trend toward “toward” has also become more pronounced in academic contexts worldwide.
Ultimately, the context of your audience and the publication’s standards are the most significant factors in deciding which form to use in academic or professional settings.
Figurative and Abstract Meanings
Both “toward” and “towards” are equally effective when used in figurative senses. Whether discussing progress, attitudes, or inclinations, the choice between the two does not affect the abstract meaning.
For example, “a step toward reconciliation” and “a step towards reconciliation” convey the same idea of moving closer to an agreement or understanding.
The figurative use simply extends the spatial concept of direction to non-physical domains, and the ‘s’ or lack thereof makes no difference to this metaphorical extension.
The Role of Consistency
Regardless of which form you choose, consistency is the most critical aspect of using “toward” and “towards.” Mixing the two within a single document can appear careless and unprofessional.
If you decide to use “toward” throughout your article, ensure every instance adheres to this choice. The same applies if you opt for “towards.”
This unwavering consistency demonstrates attention to detail and respect for grammatical conventions, enhancing the credibility of your writing.
Practical Application for Writers
When writing for a general audience, especially in online content or business communication, leaning towards “toward” is often a safe and widely accepted choice, particularly if your audience is primarily American.
If your work is intended for a British audience or a publication with a clear British editorial stance, “towards” is generally the more appropriate selection.
For academic papers or books, consult the specific style guide mandated by your institution or publisher. Adherence to these guidelines is non-negotiable in formal publishing.
The Impact on Readability
The impact of choosing “toward” over “towards” (or vice versa) on readability is minimal for most readers. Both forms are easily parsed and understood.
The perceived difference in readability is more a matter of stylistic preference than a fundamental barrier to comprehension.
A well-written sentence using either form will be clear, while a poorly constructed sentence using either form will remain awkward.
Avoiding the “S” in Compound Prepositions
Interestingly, the ‘s’ in “towards” is not typically replicated in similar compound prepositions that have evolved. For example, we use “throughout,” “forward,” and “backward,” not “throughouts,” “forwards,” or “backwards” as standard prepositions.
This observation further supports the argument for conciseness often made in favor of “toward.” The pattern in English often favors the simpler, unadorned form in modern usage.
While “forwards” and “backwards” can be used as adverbs, their prepositional counterparts are generally “forward” and “backward,” highlighting a linguistic tendency towards brevity.
When “Towards” Might Feel More Natural
In certain rhythmic or poetic contexts, the extra syllable in “towards” might lend itself to a more pleasing cadence. This is a subjective element, but it can influence a writer’s choice in creative endeavors.
For example, a line of poetry might flow better with “towards the moon” than “toward the moon,” depending on the meter and stress patterns.
This is a subtle consideration, often reserved for prose where stylistic flow is a primary concern.
The Influence of American Media
The global dominance of American media, entertainment, and technology has undoubtedly contributed to the wider acceptance and use of “toward” worldwide. As American English content is consumed internationally, its linguistic conventions spread.
This widespread exposure means that writers, even those in regions traditionally favoring “towards,” may find themselves adopting “toward” to reach a broader, potentially more American-influenced audience.
This phenomenon illustrates how linguistic norms can shift and adapt due to cultural and economic forces.
Finalizing Your Choice
When faced with the choice between “toward” and “towards,” consider your target audience and the specific style guide you are following.
Prioritize consistency above all else; maintain the form you choose throughout your entire piece of writing.
Ultimately, both forms are grammatically sound, and the “correct” choice often depends on convention and context rather than an inherent right or wrong.