headed in the direction of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "headed in the direction of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of moving towards a specific place or goal. Example: "We are headed in the direction of the conference center, so we should arrive in about ten minutes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

"The field is clearly headed in the direction of organ regeneration.

The New York Times - Science

But an abundance of other films had headed in the direction of restaurant vérité.

The New York Times

Her kidnappers headed in the direction of Ingushetia, Chechnya's neighbouring republic.

The Guardian

Authorities pulled it over Sunday night while it was headed in the direction of Kennedy airport.

The Guardian

He got up and headed in the direction of the condiments bar.

The New Yorker

Authorities pulled it over on Sunday night while it was headed in the direction of Kennedy airport.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Recently, the G.O.P. has been heading in the direction of the Tories.

The New Yorker

"Ah," he says, his accent heading in the direction of the Caribbean.

The Guardian

He even hinted that Silk Road might head in the direction of selling weapons.

The Guardian - Tech

The vehicle was seen heading in the direction of Somalia, 50 miles away.

The Guardian

We head in the direction of the train station for Sunday lunch.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a figurative journey or progression, "headed in the direction of" can soften the statement, suggesting a trend or tendency rather than a guaranteed outcome. For example: "The company is headed in the direction of greater innovation."

Common error

Avoid using "headed in the direction of" when referring to a very specific destination. It implies a general area or trend. For precise locations, use phrases like "headed to" or "going to". For example, instead of "Headed in the direction of the Eiffel Tower", say "Headed to the Eiffel Tower".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "headed in the direction of" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb of motion. It indicates the general direction or area toward which someone or something is moving. Ludwig shows its use in various contexts, such as describing physical movement or abstract progress.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

4%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "headed in the direction of" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate movement toward a general area or trend. As Ludwig highlights, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news and media, as well as formal and informal contexts. It's important to avoid using it when referring to a specific location; instead, opt for "headed to" or "going to". Alternatives like "moving towards" or "making for" can offer slight variations in meaning. In summary, "headed in the direction of" is a useful phrase for describing general movement or progression, but be mindful of its nuances to ensure accurate and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moving towards

Focuses on the act of moving, less specific about the final destination.

going towards

A more straightforward and common alternative, emphasizing the act of going.

making for

Implies a determined movement or purpose.

advancing toward

Suggests a formal and deliberate progression.

progressing toward

Emphasizes the idea of advancement or development.

setting out for

Implies the beginning of a journey with a specific destination.

steering toward

Suggests guidance or control in the movement.

aiming for

Focuses on the intended target or goal.

approaching

Highlights the act of coming closer to a destination.

on the way to

Emphasizes being en route to a particular location.

FAQs

What does "headed in the direction of" mean?

The phrase "headed in the direction of" means moving or progressing towards a general area or a certain goal, without necessarily implying arrival at a specific point.

What are some alternatives to "headed in the direction of"?

Alternatives include "moving towards", "going towards", or "making for", depending on the context. These phrases can convey a similar meaning while varying slightly in formality and emphasis.

When is it appropriate to use "headed in the direction of" instead of "headed to"?

"Headed in the direction of" is more appropriate when the destination is a general area or a trend, whereas "headed to" is used for a specific location. For instance, "headed in the direction of the mountains" versus "headed to Denver".

Is "headed in the direction of" formal or informal?

The phrase "headed in the direction of" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, simpler alternatives like "going towards" might be preferred in very informal settings.