either direction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "either direction" is grammatically correct and usable in written English.
It typically means that there are two different paths or choices available, and either one can be taken. For example: "You can go either direction on this road - it will take you to the same destination."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Roll over, either direction.

The New York Times

It could go in either direction".

The New York Times

I start anywhere and proceed in either direction".

The New York Times - Books

When they have a child, I want to walk three blocks in either direction".

The New York Times

You get to add three cards going either direction into your five-card hand.

The New York Times - Magazine

Zakia says that the outcome was "a mix that could go in either direction".

The Guardian - Opinion

Signal that you may go either direction.

WikiHow

Twist/coil your hair either direction.

WikiHow

AWD vehicles may be able to go either direction.

WikiHow

Not much going offensively in either direction.

The New York Times

You can err in either direction.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "either direction" when you want to indicate that there are two possible paths or options available, and it doesn't matter which one is chosen. This works well for giving simple instructions or describing spatial layouts.

Common error

Avoid using "either direction" when you mean "each direction". "Either" refers to one of two options, while "each" implies considering both options separately. If you want to emphasize that something applies separately to both directions, use "each direction" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "either direction" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate the availability of two directional options. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Examples from Ludwig show it specifying movement, orientation, or choice between two paths.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Wiki

11%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "either direction" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, demonstrating its versatility across diverse contexts such as news, academic writing, and general instructions. When employing the phrase, ensure you are indicating a genuine choice between two paths, as clarified in Ludwig's writing guidance. While alternatives exist, such as "both ways" or "in both directions", "either direction" is often the most concise and appropriate choice. Avoid confusing it with "each direction", which implies a separate consideration of both paths. The phrase enjoys widespread use in reputable sources like The New York Times and MIT, making it a reliable option for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in both directions

Synonymous, but more explicit about the two directions being considered.

both ways

Focuses on the availability of movement or operation in two ways. More general than "either direction".

in one direction or the other

More verbose and emphasizes the mutual exclusivity of the directions.

in either way

Emphasizes the choice between two methods or approaches, rather than physical directions.

in opposite directions

Highlights the divergence of two possible paths or movements.

in reverse or forward

Specifically relates to movement, but focuses on back and forth.

by either route

Specifically suggests that there are two possible ways to get somewhere.

in both senses

Applies when discussing abstract concepts that have two interpretations.

bidirectionally

A more technical and formal term indicating movement or influence in two directions.

to and fro

Implies repeated movement back and forth. More poetic.

FAQs

How can I use "either direction" in a sentence?

You can use "either direction" to indicate that a choice of direction is available. For example, "You can twist your hair "either direction" when making a bun", or "The road is blocked, so we can't go in "either direction"".

What does "either direction" mean?

"Either direction" means that something can move, face, or be oriented in one of two possible ways. It suggests a choice between two opposite or distinct paths or orientations.

What can I say instead of "either direction"?

Alternatives to "either direction" include "both ways", "in both directions", or "in either way", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "in either of the directions"?

While grammatically correct, "in either of the directions" is less concise than ""either direction"" and is not commonly used. The shorter phrase is generally preferred for its simplicity and directness.