Apr 18 2008
Toward or Towards?
Which of the following sentences is correct?
If you said the second sentence is correct, you’re right. If you said the first sentence is correct, you’re even more right.
Both “toward” and “towards” are technically correct, according to most English language stylebooks. The difference is, “towards” is more likely to be used these days by the Brits, while “toward” has become the American favorite.
The Associated Press Stylebook, which most American businesses and publications use, takes a distinctly American stance, saying simply, “toward, not towards.” In short, according to AP, “towards” is dead.
So if you’re an American, or gravitate to the American English way of life, you’re safer to bury “towards.” Say a few kind words over its grave and move on. If you’re British, or believe that the Queen’s English is the only true and living form of the world’s most robust language, go ahead and use “towards.”
It’s not worth another revolution.
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Thank you for the help. I love the humor!
Thanks for the explanation!
Having a Scots father and a southern momma, language was an ongoing debate in my house. I was taught: I walked towards the horses, and I had a positive regard toward them. I have one of your books, and your advice is always spot on — I drop the ’s’ because the distinction is not understood in the states. But I use it as a point that Americans prefer simple solutions over correct ones.
Finally. I may speak confidently again. Until my next grammatical cunundrum.
Thank you, Mr. Osborne
Great humor :))) and perfect explanation!!!
Thank you so much for the perfect insight, Steve!
And Cathie, thank you as well so much for your excellent examples.
Now I know from where I write on this matter, with thanks to all of you!
All my Best,
Claudia