What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
direction
Example
Can you give me directions to the nearest gas station? [directions: plural noun]
Example
The car was heading in the wrong direction on the highway. [direction: singular noun]
route
Example
We took a scenic route through the mountains to get to our destination. [route: singular noun]
Example
The bus driver changed the route due to construction on the usual road. [route: singular noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Direction is more commonly used than route in everyday language. Direction is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while route is less common and refers to a specific path or course taken.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between direction and route?
Both direction and route can be used in formal and informal contexts, but direction is generally considered more neutral and can be used in a wider range of situations.
