started toward

USAGE SUMMARY

"started toward" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It typically means to begin walking or moving in the direction of something. For example, "He started toward the door when he noticed the rain."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

He started toward Graham.

The New Yorker

The men started toward the ministers.

The New York Times

We turned around and started toward the town.

The New Yorker

I started toward her, wanting to comfort her, then stopped.

The New York Times - Magazine

Martinez tagged up at third and started toward home.

The New York Times - Sports

"I saw him raise his rifle," Rafe stated, adding that he then started toward Clark.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

He starts toward the door.

The New York Times - Sports

I start toward the basement for some boxes.

The New Yorker

You start toward the end of April, don't you?

The New Yorker

He starts toward the backcourt again to receive a pass like the first one.

The New Yorker

Construction is expected to start toward the end of the year.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "started toward" to clearly indicate the beginning of movement in a specific direction. For instance, "He started toward the door" clearly conveys the initiation of movement towards the door.

Common error

While variations exist, avoid replacing "started toward" with unnecessarily complex alternatives that obscure the simple meaning of initiating movement in a direction. Simplicity ensures clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "started toward" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of movement in a specific direction. It describes the act of beginning to move towards a particular place or object. Ludwig AI confirms the acceptability and clarity of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "started toward" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that clearly indicates the beginning of movement in a specified direction. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous examples confirms its validity and wide applicability. While alternatives exist, the phrase maintains a straightforward and neutral tone suitable for various contexts. It’s essential to avoid overcomplicating the phrase with unnecessary variations and to ensure clarity in conveying the initiation of movement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

began moving towards

Replaces "started" with "began", emphasizing the initiation of movement.

headed in the direction of

Focuses on the direction of travel, implying a determined path.

set off towards

Suggests a deliberate beginning of a journey in a particular direction.

proceeded in the direction of

More formal and emphasizes the continuation of movement towards a destination.

set out in the direction of

Similar to "set off towards" but slightly more formal and descriptive.

advanced towards

Implies a forward movement with purpose or intent.

made their way towards

Emphasizes the effort or journey involved in moving toward something.

turned toward

Highlights the act of changing direction to face or move towards something.

approached

A more concise way of saying "started toward", focusing on the act of getting closer.

gravitated toward

Suggests a natural or irresistible attraction or pull towards something.

FAQs

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

You can use "started toward" to describe the beginning of movement in a specific direction. For example, "She started toward the exit after the meeting."

What are some alternatives to "started toward"?

Alternatives include "began moving towards", "headed in the direction of", or simply "approached" depending on the context.

Is "started towards" also correct?

While "started toward" is more common, "started towards" is also grammatically correct but less frequently used. The meaning remains the same.

What's the difference between "started toward" and "continued toward"?

"Started toward" indicates the beginning of movement, while "continued toward" implies that the movement was already in progress. For example, "He started toward the stage" means he began to move to the stage, whereas "He continued toward the stage" means he was already moving and kept going.