in the direction of, with regard to, about to do something

toward the end, have a chip on one's shoulder toward someone, take a step toward something

lean toward, be geared toward, work toward

Formal and Informal Expressions of toward

In different contexts, you can replace 'toward' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'in the direction of, regarding' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'towards, about to' is a commonplace synonym.

toward: Explore its Definition & Usage

toward Definition

1in the direction of
2with regard to
3about to do something

Using toward: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "toward" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He walked toward the door.
Example
She has a positive attitude toward life.
Example
I'm working toward my goals.
Example
The company is moving toward a more sustainable business model.

toward Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for toward

to
approaching
near
about
in the direction of

Antonyms for toward

away from
opposite to

Idioms Using toward

toward the end
as something is approaching its conclusion
Example
Toward the end of the movie, the plot twists became more intense.
have a chip on one's shoulder toward someone
hold a grudge or resentment towards someone
Example
Ever since he lost the competition to her, he's had a chip on his shoulder toward her.
take a step toward something
make progress or move closer to achieving something
Example
By saving money each month, I am taking a step toward buying a house.

Phrases with toward

lean toward
have a tendency or inclination towards something
Example
I lean toward a plant-based diet for health reasons.
be geared toward
be designed or intended for a particular purpose or audience
Example
This product is geared toward young adults who are interested in fitness.
work toward
make progress in achieving a goal or objective
Example
I am working toward a promotion at work.

Origins of toward

from Old English 'tóweard', meaning 'in the direction of'

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Summary: toward in Brief

'Toward' [tôrd] is a preposition that indicates direction, intention, or relation. It can be used to describe physical movement, as in 'He walked toward the door,' or attitudes and beliefs, as in 'She has a positive attitude toward life.' 'Toward' also appears in idioms like 'toward the end,' which means approaching the conclusion, and 'take a step toward something,' which means making progress.