What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
toward
Example
He walked toward the store to buy some groceries. [toward: preposition]
Example
I feel a sense of goodwill toward my coworkers. [toward: preposition]
Example
She is working toward her degree in psychology. [toward: preposition]
about
Example
Let's talk about our plans for the weekend. [about: preposition]
Example
Can you tell me more about the new project? [about: preposition]
Example
There were about ten people at the party. [about: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
About is more commonly used than toward in everyday language. About is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while toward is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between toward and about?
Both toward and about are considered neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.