an orientation toward

USAGE SUMMARY

This is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a particular attitude or outlook that one has. For example, "He had an orientation toward public service which was admirable."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Gilligan argues that Kohlberg's rule-oriented conception of morality has an orientation toward justice, which she associates with stereotypically male thinking, whereas women and girls are perhaps more likely to approach moral dilemmas with a "care" orientation.

SEP

They'd met at a commune, in the nineteen-seventies, and shared an orientation toward progressive activism.

The New Yorker

The Tojolabal are Roman Catholic, with an orientation toward the veneration of saints.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The adoption of a PSS involves an orientation toward selling product functionality instead of selling products.

Journal of Cleaner Production

"There has to be an orientation toward global agreements, and those who don't participate are going to be left behind".

The New York Times

We find that strategic planning decreases the likelihood of insolvency whereas an orientation toward the needy increases spending.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

They should be targeted to middle school, in school and after school classes, because educational research suggests that formation of a positive orientation toward an area earlier in a student's career increases the potential for sustained interest and participation.

Huffington Post

The room's changing uses reflect the University's progression from a religious orientation toward a more humanistic tradition.

Princeton University

This is a "what" rather than a "how to build systems" orientation, oriented toward an interdisciplinary audience.

Stanford University

However, in the legacy of William James, Rorty does retrieve a place for a spiritual orientation toward the good in the form of the pursuit of happiness via the spiritual and religious imagination.

HuffPost

However, these representations lost much ground during the last quarter of the 20th century, partly the result of substantial beautification efforts the most significant of which included a new orientation toward the beach, an area that had decayed for decades.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an orientation toward" when you want to express a general direction, focus, or attitude regarding a specific subject or goal. It is suitable for formal and academic writing.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "an orientation toward" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider simpler alternatives like "a focus on" or "interested in" for everyday communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an orientation toward" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun, indicating a particular focus, direction, or attitude. Ludwig AI shows that it effectively sets the stage for explaining the nature of that focus or direction.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an orientation toward" is a prepositional phrase that indicates a specific focus, direction, or attitude. It's commonly used in formal contexts such as academic papers, news articles, and business reports. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and effectively conveys a sense of purpose or direction. While versatile, consider simpler alternatives for informal settings. Its prevalence across reputable sources underscores its reliability in professional communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a focus on

Emphasizes concentration on a specific point or subject rather than a general direction.

an inclination to

Highlights a natural tendency or predisposition, suggesting a leaning rather than a deliberate aim.

a tendency for

Suggests a predictable pattern of behavior or thought, implying a habit or routine.

a leaning toward

Implies a slight preference or bias, suggesting a subtle inclination.

a predisposition to

Focuses on an inherent or acquired susceptibility, indicating a vulnerability or readiness.

an affinity for

Highlights a natural liking or attraction, emphasizing a positive connection.

a proclivity for

Suggests a strong, often uncontrollable, inclination or tendency.

a bent for

Indicates a natural talent or aptitude, suggesting a skill or ability.

a predilection for

Implies a preference or special liking, suggesting a personal taste or choice.

a susceptibility to

Emphasizes vulnerability or openness to influence, suggesting a lack of resistance.

FAQs

How can I use "an orientation toward" in a sentence?

This phrase indicates a focus or direction. For example, "The company has "an orientation toward" customer satisfaction" means customer satisfaction is a key focus.

What are some alternatives to "an orientation toward"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a focus on", "an inclination to", or "a tendency for".

Is "an orientation toward" formal or informal?

It leans towards formal usage, suitable for academic, business, or professional contexts. In casual settings, simpler phrases might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "an orientation toward" and "an attitude toward"?

"An orientation toward" implies a direction or focus, whereas "an attitude toward" refers to a feeling or opinion. Orientation suggests a proactive direction, while attitude is a reactive stance.