What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
southbound
Example
The southbound train will arrive at the station in ten minutes. [southbound: adjective]
Example
We are driving southbound on the highway to reach our destination. [southbound: adverb]
southerly
Example
The southerly winds brought warm weather to the region. [southerly: adjective]
Example
We are traveling in a southerly direction to reach our destination. [southerly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Southbound is more commonly used than southerly in everyday language, especially in transportation contexts. Southerly is less common but still widely used in weather and geographical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between southbound and southerly?
Both southbound and southerly are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
