Common Errors Grammar Tip 16

The –ward words

Which sentences are correct in American English? in British English?

1. She walked towards the door.

2. Look inwards to achieve peace.

3. Go forwards and then take a left.

4. He is moving onwards and upwards.

5. He stumbled backwards into the bushes. 

6. They had dinner and went to a club afterwards.

None of the sentences are correct in American English. All of the sentences are correct in British English.

Why?

In British English, the directional suffix –ward typically ends in s. In American English, it does not.

Here are the correct versions in American English:

1. She walked toward the door.

2. Look inward to achieve peace.

3. Go forward and then take a left.

4. He is moving onward and upward.

5. He stumbled backward into the bushes. 

6. They had dinner and went to a club afterward.

As always, I advise against mixing American and British styles. Learn one style well—including word choice, spellings, and punctuation—and stick with it! 

Pick a lane and stay in it!