What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
northern
Example
I live in a small town in northern Canada. [northern: adjective]
Example
The northern states experience colder winters than the southern states. [northern: adjective]
Example
The Inuit people have a rich history in the northern regions of Canada. [northern: adjective]
northward
Example
We decided to head northward to escape the heat of the city. [northward: adverb]
Example
The virus is spreading northward, affecting more and more communities. [northward: adverb]
Example
We are planning a road trip northward to see the fall foliage. [northward: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Northern is more commonly used than northward in everyday language. Northern is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while northward is more specific and commonly used in navigation, travel, and trends.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between northern and northward?
Both northern and northward are considered formal words and can be used in formal writing and speech.
