in either direction

USAGE SUMMARY

"in either direction" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to refer to two opposite directions in which something might be done, chosen, or taken. For example: "The road can be traveled in either direction".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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

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

The Guardian - Opinion

The MPC's response in terms of interest rates could be "in either direction".

BBC

Not much going offensively in either direction.

The New York Times

You can err in either direction.

The New York Times - Magazine

We could go in either direction.

The New York Times

No, not in either direction.

The New York Times

The dynamic can run in either direction.

The New Yorker

And that would apply in either direction.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in either direction" to clearly indicate that something can occur or be approached from two opposite perspectives or physical orientations. This helps in avoiding ambiguity and ensures the reader understands the full range of possibilities.

Common error

Avoid using "in either direction" in overly complex sentences where its meaning might be obscured. Simplify the sentence or rephrase to ensure clarity. Consider alternative phrasings like "either way" or restructuring the sentence for better readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in either direction" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause by specifying the manner or direction in which an action can occur. As seen in Ludwig, it adds detail to actions or states, indicating that they are not limited to one single way or orientation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

13%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in either direction" is a versatile and frequently used adverbial phrase that indicates the possibility of movement, influence, or choice occurring in two opposite ways. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts. It is most commonly found in news and media, as well as academic writing. To enhance clarity, ensure its meaning is not obscured by overly complex sentence structures. Alternatives such as "either way" or "in both directions" can offer simpler phrasing while maintaining the intended meaning. By understanding its proper usage and context, you can effectively incorporate "in either direction" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in both directions

This phrase is very similar, but emphasizes the physical movement or orientation aspect more directly.

either way

This alternative is a more concise and general way of expressing that the outcome will be the same regardless of the direction taken.

in opposite ways

This stresses the contrast between the two possible directions or methods.

in both ways

This alternative emphasizes the duality of the action or movement being possible in two distinct ways.

in either sense

This alternative focuses on two possible interpretations or meanings of something.

in both orientations

This emphasizes the possibility of two arrangements or orientations, often used in a technical context.

in reverse or forward

This alternative specifies the directions, implying movement from a starting point back or ahead.

bidirectionally

A more formal, single-word alternative, emphasizing the possibility of action or movement in two directions.

in dual mode

This option focuses on technological contexts where a system may function in two different operating modes.

in both polarities

This is used in technical or scientific contexts related to electrical or magnetic fields, representing opposite charged states or directions.

FAQs

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

Use "in either direction" to indicate that movement, change, or influence can occur in two opposing ways. For example, "The traffic can flow "in either direction" on this street depending on the time of day."

What are some alternatives to "in either direction"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "either way", "in both directions", or "in both ways" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it more formal to say "in either direction" or "either way"?

"In either direction" is generally considered more formal and precise, while "either way" is more casual and conversational.

When should I use "in either direction" versus "bidirectionally"?

Use ""in either direction"" when describing a choice or movement between two distinct paths or orientations. Use "bidirectionally" for more technical or scientific contexts, emphasizing simultaneous action in two directions, such as in data transmission.