Upward Trajectory: Why Things Are Looking Up

Are you wondering whether to use 'upwards' or 'upward' in your writing? Both terms are commonly used, but they have slightly different connotations. Let's delve into the nuances of 'upwards' and 'upward' to help you understand when to use each.

Is it Toward or Towards? Upwards or Upward?

As a starting point, both 'upwards' and 'upward' are adverbs of direction, indicating movement or position in an upward direction. However, there are distinct differences in their usage, particularly when considering grammar and style.

the words onwards and upwardss are printed on a piece of white paper with purple ink

Using 'Upwards' as an Adverb

'Upwards' is often used to refer to a general or continuous upward movement, rather than a specific direction.

For instance, in the phrase "The bird flew upwards," it doesn't specify a particular destination; it simply denotes an upward trajectory.

'Upwards' with Gerunds and Infinitives

business people climbing up an arrow to reach the sky with their hands in each other's pockets

'Upwards' is commonly used after gerunds (verb-forms ending in '-ing') and infinitives to indicate the direction of the action.

For example, "Looking upwards, she saw a beautiful eagle soaring high" and "To travel upwards, one must visualize their goal clearly."

'Upwards' with Nouns and Pronouns

the words onward and upward are drawn in black ink on a white background with arrows

We also use 'upwards' to describe a general direction or movement in relation to a noun or pronoun.

Consider, "Her eyes looked upwards, taking in the magnificent view," and "He pointed upwards, indicating the North Star."

Using 'Upward' as an Adverb

'Upward' is typically used to refer to specific movements or positions, often in relation to a point of reference.

For example, in "The plane ascended upward," the upward movement is defined in relation to the plane's initial position.

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Upward Trend: Business Growth Graphics 2

the words onward and upward written in black ink

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a drawing with words on it that say, friends and upwdoods in black ink

an image of someone's tweeting on their twitter account with the words, there are far better things than any i have to leave behind them

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'Upward' with Degree and Percentage

'Upward' is commonly used after degree or percentage indicators to point out an increase.

For instance, "The temperature rose 5 degrees upward," and "The stock price jumped 5% upward."

'Upward' with Nouns and Pronouns

'Upward' can also describe a specific direction or movement in relation to a noun or pronoun.

For example, "The rocket launched upward into the sky," and "Their eyes turned upward in anticipation."

Using 'upwards' or 'upward' appropriately can bolster your writing, providing just the right nuance. With this knowledge, you're ready to elevate your language use, upward and onwards towards eloquence!