What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
north
Example
We are traveling north for our vacation. [north: adverb]
Example
Canada is located north of the United States. [north: preposition]
northward
Example
The ship is sailing northward towards the Arctic. [northward: adverb]
Example
We are planning a northward trip to see the aurora borealis. [northward: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
North is more commonly used than northward in everyday language. North is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while northward is less common and more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between north and northward?
North is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while northward is more formal and less commonly used.
