toward which

USAGE SUMMARY

"toward which" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used at the start of a clause, followed by a verb (or verb phrase), to refer to a previous clause or idea. For example: "The city has invested considerable resources in the project, toward which considerable progress has been made."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And toward which specific ends?

The New York Times

It's a quest toward which (in theory, anyway) I'm very sympathetic.

The New York Times - Books

Developing organs thus provide "sinks" toward which nutrients tend to move.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is the film toward which Tilda Swinton has been tending.

The New Yorker

"Deity" signifies the upper goal, the next higher level toward which the cosmic order spontaneously tends.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Goodness is the only end toward which human beings must strive.

The New York Times

The battle propelled Vann down a course toward which he had gradually been heading.

The New Yorker

History tries to make sense out of chaos, toward which the world inevitably inclines.

The New York Times - Arts

"It's in that area toward which the city is growing," he said.

The New York Times

Institutions produce order by creating expectations toward which individuals can orient their economic behaviour.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He offered no comment on the goal toward which his ladder was carrying him.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "toward which" to clearly indicate direction or purpose, especially in formal writing. It helps to connect ideas smoothly and specify the target or goal of an action or movement.

Common error

Avoid using "toward which" in informal contexts. It can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "towards what" or "what... for" in casual conversation or less formal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "toward which" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a relative clause. It modifies a preceding noun or clause by specifying the direction, aim, or goal. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "toward which" is a prepositional phrase that introduces a relative clause, specifying direction, aim, or goal. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in English. It is frequently used in formal and scientific contexts. Common sources include The New York Times, Encyclopedia Britannica, and academic journals. While "toward which" is grammatically sound, it is crucial to consider the context and choose simpler alternatives in informal settings. Common alternatives include "towards what" or rephrasing the sentence for better clarity. Remember to use "toward which" when precision and formality are desired, and consider your audience to ensure the phrase is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

towards what

A more simplified and direct version, removing the relative pronoun.

in the direction of which

This alternative emphasizes the directional aspect more explicitly by using the phrase "in the direction of".

the object of which

Highlights the target or goal of something, making the intention clearer.

to what end

This focuses on the purpose or goal, shifting the emphasis from direction to intention.

in pursuit of what

This alternative highlights the act of striving or seeking something, rather than just moving towards it.

with the aim of which

This phrase clearly states the intention or objective behind the action, adding a layer of formality.

in relation to which

This option suggests a connection or association, rather than a direct movement or orientation.

for what purpose

This directly asks about the reason or intent behind an action, simplifying the original phrase.

whereupon

This is a formal, concise way to indicate what follows or results from a previous action or event.

as regards what

Focuses on the subject matter or topic under consideration.

FAQs

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

Use "toward which" to introduce a relative clause specifying the direction, goal, or aim of something previously mentioned. For example, "The project has clear objectives, "toward which" all efforts are directed."

What are some alternatives to "toward which"?

Alternatives include simpler phrases like "towards what", "in the direction of which", or rephrasing the sentence to use a different structure altogether. The best choice depends on the desired level of formality and clarity.

Is it more correct to use "toward which" or "towards which"?

"Toward" and "towards" are both acceptable, with "toward" being more common in American English and "towards" in British English. Therefore, both ""toward which"" and "towards which" are grammatically correct.

When is it appropriate to use "toward which" in writing?

It is appropriate in formal writing when you want to clearly indicate the direction, aim, or goal of something and connect it smoothly to a previous idea. It can be replaced with simpler language in less formal contexts.