"Toward" Vs "Towards" - What’s the Difference?

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If you’ve ever wondered whether to write “toward” or “towards,” you’re not alone. Both words are correct, and both mean the same thing: in the direction of. The difference is simply about where you are in the world.

Today, Midoo AI will clear up the confusion so you’ll always know which version to use in your writing.

What Does “Toward” Mean?

Toward is the preferred spelling in American English. You’ll see it in books, newspapers, and websites from the United States.

It works as a preposition that shows direction, relationship, or attitude.

Examples of “Toward” (American English):

  • She walked toward the park.
  • His attitude toward learning is excellent.
  • The car was moving toward the city center.
  • I’m working hard toward my goals.
  • Their kindness toward strangers is inspiring.

👉 If you’re writing for an American audience, use toward (no “s”).

What Does “Towards” Mean?

Towards is the preferred spelling in British English. It means exactly the same thing as “toward,” but British speakers naturally add the “s.”

You’ll see it in the UK, Ireland, Australia, and other places that use British spelling.

Examples of “Towards” (British English):

  • She walked towards the park.
  • His attitude towards learning is excellent.
  • The car was moving towards the city centre.
  • I’m working hard towards my goals.
  • Their kindness towards strangers is inspiring.

👉 If you’re writing for a British audience, towards will look more natural.

Do They Mean Anything Different?

No — there is no difference in meaning. Both forms show direction, aim, or attitude. The only difference is spelling preference:

  • Toward = American English.
  • Towards = British English.

Quick Memory Trick

  • Toward → U.S. (shorter word, shorter spelling).
  • Towards → U.K. (longer word, longer spelling).

This way, you’ll always remember which one belongs where.

Common Mistakes

❌ He moved towardS me quickly. (capital S not needed if you’re in American English). ✔️ He moved toward me quickly.

❌ She walked toward the park (in UK writing, it may look incomplete). ✔️ She walked towards the park.

👉 The mistake isn’t about meaning — it’s about mixing audiences. Stick to one style depending on who you’re writing for.

FAQs

Can I use both “toward” and “towards” in the same essay?

It’s better to stay consistent. If you start with American spelling, keep using toward. If you start with British spelling, use towards.

Do Americans ever use “towards”?

Yes, sometimes, but most American style guides recommend toward.

Do British people ever use “toward”?

Rarely. It’s much more natural for them to use towards.

Which one should I learn first as an English learner?

That depends on whether you want to focus on American or British English. Both are correct, so choose one and stay consistent.

Are there other words like this?

Yes! Words like backward/backwards and forward/forwards work the same way — Americans usually drop the “s,” while British English keeps it.

Final Thoughts

Both toward and towards are correct. The only difference is geography:

  • Use toward if you’re writing American English.
  • Use towards if you’re writing British English.

They mean exactly the same thing, so you’ll never be wrong about meaning — just be mindful of spelling consistency.

Midoo AI suggests this practice: write two sentences, one with toward and one with towards. That way, you’ll remember the difference based on your audience.