Go Toward vs Go Towards: Preposition Usage in Writing

Writer reaching for book at wooden desk, illustrating preposition usage in writing.

Editorial Team · on 25 July 2026 · 5 min read · Last reviewed 25 July 2026

Go toward and go towards are both correct prepositional phrases in English, with go toward being the preferred American English usage.

LABEL: Think of it as choosing between ketchup and catsup, they’re the same thing, but one’s more common in certain places.

Key facts

The preference for go toward over go towards is a hallmark of American English, while British English favors the latter.
Both forms are grammatically correct, but regional usage varies.
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, go toward is the more frequently used form in American publications.
The difference extends to other verbs like move toward and work towards, with similar regional preferences.

American English Preference for “Go Toward”

Go toward is the standard prepositional phrase in American English, appearing in both formal and informal writing.

Put simply: The short version: if you’re writing for an American audience, go toward is your go-to phrase.

In my experience, American publishers and style guides, such as the Chicago Manual of Style, consistently advocate for go toward. This preference is reflected in widely read American literature, from classic novels to contemporary short stories. For example, in Ernest Hemingway’s Hills Like White Elephants, the phrase go toward is used naturally and idiomatically.

Go Toward vs Go Towards: Preposition Usage in Writing

British English Preference for “Go Towards”

Go towards is the preferred form in British English, appearing in both formal and informal contexts.

The short version: At its core, British English leans towards go towards, much like how Brits prefer ‘colour’ over ‘color’.

British style guides, including the Oxford Style Manual, endorse go towards. This usage is prevalent in British literature, from the works of Jane Austen to modern authors like Zadie Smith. For instance, in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, the phrase go towards is used consistently, aligning with British English conventions.

Regional Variations and Global Usage

Regional variations in prepositional phrases extend beyond American and British English, with other English-speaking countries adopting different preferences.

At its core: Here is the gist: while Americans say go toward and Brits say go towards, other English-speaking regions may vary.

For example, Canadian English often follows American English conventions, including the use of go toward. Australian and New Zealand English, however, tend to align more closely with British English, favoring go towardsThese variations show tailoring your writing to your specific audience matters.

Short Stories and Essays: Where Prepositions Matter

In short stories and essays, the choice between go toward and go towards can subtly influence the tone and readability of your work.

Simply put: The bottom line: consistency in preposition usage is key, especially in short stories and essays aimed at specific regional audiences.

When writing short stories or essays, consider your target audience. If you’re writing for an American audience, use go toward consistently. For a British audience, opt for go towards. This consistency helps maintain the flow and coherence of your writing. For example, in the short story collections of authors like Flannery O’Connor, the use of regional prepositions aligns with the expectations of her American readership.

Best Practices for Writers

To ensure clarity and consistency in your writing, follow these best practices for using go toward and go towards.

Identify Your Audience: Determine whether your primary audience is American, British, or another English-speaking region.
Consult Style Guides: Refer to relevant style guides, such as the Chicago Manual of Style for American English or the Oxford Style Manual for British English.
Maintain Consistency: Once you’ve chosen a form, use it consistently throughout your manuscript.
Edit for Clarity: Ensure that your preposition usage does not distract from the clarity and impact of your writing.

How to Choose Between “Go Toward” and “Go Towards”

To choose between go toward and go towards, consider the following criteria:

Target Audience: Identify the primary regional audience for your writing.
Style Guide Preferences: Consult the relevant style guide for your target region.
Consistency: Ensure that your choice aligns with the overall consistency of your manuscript.
Tone and Readability: Evaluate how your choice affects the tone and readability of your work.

Examples of Usage in Short Stories and Essays

Reviewing examples of usage in short stories and essays can provide valuable insights into effective preposition usage.

Example	Usage	Source
The old man decided to go toward the lighthouse, seeking solace in its familiar glow.	Go toward	Ernest Hemingway, The Old Man and the Sea
She hesitated before going towards the door, unsure of what awaited her on the other side.	Go towards	Virginia Woolf, Kew Gardens
He walked slowly, his steps moving toward the edge of the cliff.	Go toward	Raymond Carver, Cathedral
They decided to go towards the forest, hoping to find shelter from the storm.	Go towards	J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes in preposition usage can enhance the professionalism and clarity of your writing.

Inconsistent Usage: Ensure that you use either go toward or go towards consistently throughout your manuscript.
Incorrect Regional Preference: Be mindful of the regional preferences of your target audience.
Overcomplicating Phrases: Avoid unnecessary complexity in your prepositional phrases, keeping them clear and concise.
Ignoring Style Guides: Always consult the relevant style guide for your target region to ensure accuracy.

Additional Resources for Writers

Explore additional resources to deepen your understanding of preposition usage and improve your writing skills.

Resource	Description
Mastering the Third Person Narrative in Short Stories	This guide provides insights into effective narrative techniques, including preposition usage, in short stories.
Third-Person POV: Limited vs Omniscient in Essays	Explore the nuances of third-person point of view in essays, with a focus on consistent preposition usage.
Point of View Third Person: Choosing Your Lens	Learn how to choose the right point of view for your writing, including the impact of preposition usage.
Addressing the Reader: When to Use You're in Fiction	Understand the appropriate use of second-person address in fiction, alongside effective preposition usage.
Let's: Engaging the Audience in Short Essays	Discover techniques for engaging your audience in short essays, with a focus on clear and consistent preposition usage.
Mastering Ordinals: 4th 4rd Rules for Professional Essays	Master the rules of ordinals in professional essays, including the use of prepositions in numbered lists.

To close, the choice between go toward and go towards is a subtle but important aspect of effective writing. By understanding regional preferences, consulting style guides, and maintaining consistency, you can enhance the clarity and impact of your short stories and essays.

Frequently asked questions

Is 'go toward' or 'go towards' correct?

Both are correct. 'Go toward' is preferred in American English, while 'go towards' is common in British English. The choice depends on your audience and regional conventions. Context matters less here; consistency does.

Can I use 'go toward' for financial contexts?

Absolutely. 'Go toward' works well for contributions, like 'donations go toward education funds.' It clearly conveys purpose without ambiguity. Stick to your regional preference for consistency.

Does 'go towards' sound outdated?

No. 'Go towards' remains standard in British English. Usage reflects regional norms, not age. Both forms are modern and widely accepted in their respective dialects.

Should I adjust 'toward' vs 'towards' in direct speech?

Match the speaker's dialect. If writing an American character, use 'toward.' For British characters, 'towards' fits naturally. Authenticity trumps strict rules in dialogue.