direct toward

USAGE SUMMARY

"direct toward" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to indicate a particular direction or focus. For example: "The team's efforts were directed toward finding a solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Other than new spending, the crux of the budget involves a partial shift away from direct toward indirect taxes.

The New York Times

I think of the taunt I once heard Don Rickles direct toward a patron in a casino lounge: "Look at that guy.

The New York Times - Sports

The Alameda County Workforce Investment Board has $500,000 in job-relocation money it can direct toward the effort, said Roy Bertuccelli, the board's program specialist.

The New York Times

"The more you use e-mail, the more money you direct toward your charity," said Rambod Yadegar, who founded the service with his brother, Sam.

The New York Times - Tech

Rather, it is the dislike we direct toward creatures that live outdoors and generally mind their own business, but that behave in ways we find rude, irritating, selfish or contemptible.

The New York Times - Science

Someone in the stadium had an especially strong laser pointer, which they would direct toward the field any time an American player fell to the ground in agony, something the Mexican fans automatically presumed to be fake.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Treatment is directed toward reducing symptoms.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was directed toward his own team.

The New York Times

Ordinarily, treatment is directed toward the cause.

Encyclopedia Britannica

(22) misogynoir: misogyny directed toward black women.

The Guardian - Books

I was directed toward "the first lady".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "direct toward", ensure the subject clearly indicates who or what is doing the directing, and the object specifies where the direction is aimed.

Common error

Avoid using "direct to" when you mean to indicate a general direction or purpose. "Direct to" implies a more precise destination. For example, use "direct toward a solution" instead of "direct to a solution" if you're speaking about generally working towards finding a solution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "direct toward" primarily functions as a verb phrase with a preposition, indicating an action of guiding or channeling something in a specific direction. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this phrase is considered correct and usable in English. Examples on Ludwig show it being used to describe the direction of efforts, resources, or attention.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "direct toward" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the channeling or aiming of efforts, resources, or attention in a specific direction. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in a variety of contexts. It's most commonly found in News & Media and Science, but also appears in other sources. To use the phrase effectively, ensure a clear subject and object, and be mindful of choosing the right preposition to convey the intended meaning. Related phrases like "channel towards", "focus on", and "gear toward" provide alternatives for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

channel towards

Emphasizes guiding or routing something in a specific direction, similar to directing.

focus on

Highlights concentrating attention or resources on a particular target.

gear toward

Implies adjusting or modifying something to be suitable for a specific purpose or target.

aim at

Indicates intending something to achieve a specific result or affect a particular target.

target at

Suggests directing efforts or marketing towards a specific group or demographic.

orient toward

Emphasizes adjusting perspective or efforts to align with a specific goal.

allocate to

Focuses on assigning resources or funds for a particular purpose.

devote to

Implies dedicating time, effort, or resources to a specific task.

apply to

Suggests using a method, idea, or skill in a particular situation.

concentrate on

Implies focusing all attention and resources on one specific point.

FAQs

How can I use "direct toward" in a sentence?

Use "direct toward" to show that something is aimed or channeled in a specific direction. For example: "The company will "direct toward" sustainable practices."

What are some alternatives to "direct toward"?

Alternatives to "direct toward" include "channel towards", "focus on", or "gear toward". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "direct toward" formal or informal language?

"Direct toward" is generally considered neutral and suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

What's the difference between "direct toward" and "directed toward"?

"Direct toward" is the infinitive form, while "directed toward" is the past participle form, often used in passive voice. For example, "The funds were "directed toward" research."