outward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is directed away from a center or towards the outside, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. Example: "The design of the building features outward-facing windows that allow for plenty of natural light."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

In the well-pruned streets of Milton Keynes, there are few outward signs of a fierce electoral "ground war".

The Guardian

As a result, the scientific community began to think of REM as the outward manifestation of the dream state.

The Guardian - Opinion

As is common in such awkward situations, the outward trappings of the relationship appear undisturbed, for now at least, as shown by Barack Obama's homage to Abdullah in Riyadh on Tuesday.

The Guardian

In his video installation Barflies, which is at the Site Gallery in Sheffield until September 7, Chakravarthi stations himself in a variety of pubs and clubs and tries to get some attention, resulting in a subversive artwork that underlines the distinction between outward appearance and inward reality, according to the Guardian's review.

The Guardian

Indeed, by emphasising outward appearance, the design guide will only encourage the practice of what is known in the industry as "jacketing" – simply wrapping the same standard house type in different cladding to satisfy local planners and the market.

The Guardian - Arts

Continued growth of outward investment in Asia, saw it start to catch up on North America.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

A cash-strapped Tory- or Labour-led administration is likely to further weaken Britain's defence capability and its outward-facing global stance.

The Guardian

"See, if I'm an outward-going person, then maybe my ex is the opposite, very quiet, private.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Just as Stanley Baldwin and John Major conjured an idealised England of pastoral scenes and cricket, from around 2004 Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon began to paint a picture of a leftwing Scotland, an anti-Tory Scotland, an egalitarian and outward-looking nation; an image of how many Scots liked to see themselves, if not a wholly accurate representation of who they actually were.

The Guardian

"We are an outward-facing nation with a global language, a global cultural, educational and legal reach," he said, "with deep ties all over the world and with one in 10 of our citizens living permanently overseas.

The Guardian

This outward-looking and adventurous approach greatly influenced our decision to create a cross-arts series New Moves, which launched in 2010.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing direction or movement, ensure "outward" is paired with a verb that clearly indicates the action (e.g., "spreading outward", "facing outward").

Common error

Avoid confusing "outward" (directed away from the center) with "outgoing" (sociable and friendly). For instance, instead of saying "He has an outward personality", use "He has an outgoing personality".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "outward" is typically as an adjective, describing something that is directed away from a center or towards the outside. However, Ludwig AI's examples showcase its use as an adverb as well, meaning towards the outside.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "outward" is a versatile term that functions primarily as an adjective, denoting direction, appearance, or orientation. Ludwig AI shows that it is frequently used in News & Media, Formal & Business, and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral register. Common usages include "outward appearance", "outward investment", and "outward signs". While generally correct, ensure that "outward" is not confused with "outgoing". Overall, "outward" is a common and accepted term with diverse applications in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outwardly

Focuses on the external manifestation or appearance, often contrasting with inner feelings or reality.

exterior

Refers to the external surface or appearance, emphasizing the physical outside.

external

Describes something that is situated on or relating to the outside.

towards the outside

A more descriptive phrase indicating movement or direction away from the center.

to the exterior

Similar to "exterior", specifying direction or orientation.

visible

Emphasizes the capability of being seen or noticed.

in appearance

Focuses specifically on how something looks to others.

surface

Highlights the outermost layer or aspect of something, often implying a lack of depth.

in manifestation

Highlights the way something is outwardly displayed or expressed.

apparent

Indicates something that is easily seen or understood from the outside.

FAQs

How can I use "outward" in a sentence?

"Outward" can be used to describe direction (e.g., "the city is spreading outward"), appearance (e.g., "outward signs of unity"), or orientation (e.g., "an "outward-facing" nation").

What words can I use instead of "outward"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "external", "exterior", or "outwardly".

What is the difference between "outward" and "outwardly"?

"Outward" is typically used as an adjective to describe something directed towards the outside, while "outwardly" is an adverb that describes something in terms of its external appearance.

Is it correct to say "outward appearance"?

Yes, "outward appearance" is a common and correct phrase. It refers to the way someone or something looks to others. See Ludwig AI's examples for more information.