Toward Meaning

UK /tɔːd/
US /tɔːrd/
Word Definition
toward meaning

Toward Definition & Usage

preposition

Indicating direction towards something or someone.

Examples

  • "She walked toward the door, hesitant to open it."
  • "The car is heading toward the city center."
  • "The boat sailed toward the horizon, disappearing into the mist."
  • "I saw him walk toward me with a concerned expression."
  • "The children ran toward the ice cream truck when it arrived."
preposition

In the direction of a particular goal or objective, typically relating to attitudes, ideas, or behaviors.

Examples

  • "The company is working toward creating a more sustainable product."
  • "She has always been toward helping others in need."
  • "His research is moving toward finding a cure for the disease."
  • "They are all working toward a common goal of success."
  • "We should be moving toward a greener, more eco-friendly lifestyle."
adjective

In a manner that indicates support or alignment with something.

Examples

  • "He has a very positive attitude toward the new project."
  • "Her approach toward the situation was calm and measured."
  • "They have a relaxed attitude toward rules at the office."
  • "He took a cautious approach toward the proposed changes."
  • "The organization has a strong commitment toward improving literacy rates."

Cultural Context

The word 'toward' has been in use since Old English, evolving through Middle English forms. It functions as a preposition, commonly used in everyday speech to describe both physical movement and abstract progress.

The Path Ahead

Story

The Path Ahead

Late in the evening, the bustling city of Greenfield quieted down. Kate walked toward the small cafe at the corner of Elm Street, her favorite spot to clear her mind. She had been thinking a lot lately about her future, wondering if her current path was the right one. The last few months had been a whirlwind, filled with endless meetings and little time to reflect. But tonight, as she walked toward the warm glow of the cafe's lights, she felt a sense of calm. Inside, she saw her friend and mentor, Mr. Evans, sitting by the window with a cup of tea. He had always been supportive of her career choices, guiding her toward making thoughtful decisions. 'How's everything going?' he asked, looking up from his notes. Kate sat down and took a deep breath. 'It's been busy,' she said, 'but I’m finally feeling like I'm heading toward something meaningful.' Mr. Evans smiled. 'That's good to hear. You know, you’ve been working toward this for a long time. It’s all coming together.' Kate nodded, realizing that she was on the right track, even if the journey was uncertain at times. 'I think I’m finally understanding what it means to move toward my true purpose,' she said, her voice filled with conviction. As they discussed the challenges ahead, Kate's mind wandered. She thought about how far she had come, how her attitude toward her work had changed over time. What once felt like a burden now seemed like a stepping stone toward something greater. 'The more I think about it, the more I realize that everything I’ve done has been toward helping others,' Kate mused. 'It’s not just a job. It’s a calling.' The evening faded into the night, and as Kate walked home, she felt a renewed sense of determination. Her journey was far from over, but she was certain of one thing: she was moving toward the future she had always dreamed of, one step at a time.

The Path Ahead