GO TOWARD

National Parks

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'go toward' means to move in the direction of something or to contribute to achieving a particular end or goal.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'go toward' means to move in the direction of something or to contribute to achieving a particular end or goal.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
'Go toward' cannot be split by an object.
Register
Neutral
It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
Requires an object to complete its meaning.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple go toward We go toward the entrance together.
Past Simple went toward They went toward the sound of music.
Present Continuous going toward They are going toward the finish line.
Present Perfect have gone toward She has gone toward the solution with determination.

💡 When to Use

Planning future goals
Use when discussing the direction of efforts or plans aimed at achieving future objectives.
Example: "All their efforts go toward improving their education."
Describing movement
Use when talking about physical movement in the direction of a specific place.
Example: "The herd went toward the river for water."
Financial contributions
Use when discussing the allocation of resources or funds directly aimed at a purpose.
Example: "The proceeds go toward charitable causes."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect object placement
❌ Wrong: We toward go the park.
✅ Correct: We go toward the park.
💡 Tip: Keep the verb structure intact.
Confusing direction
❌ Wrong: She goes toward inside.
✅ Correct: She goes inside.
💡 Tip: Ensure clarity in direction.
Missing object
❌ Wrong: The funds go toward.
✅ Correct: The funds go toward construction efforts.
💡 Tip: Always specify the target.
Practice

GO TOWARD - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

head for proceed to

Antonyms

move away from

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"The volunteers ___ toward helping the community rebuild."

went away
go toward
goes back
moved off

"In life, every step you go toward your dreams, the more enriched and meaningful your journey becomes."

In Context

In 1492, Christopher Columbus set sail on a journey that would redefine world history. The Italian explorer, backed by the Spanish crown, was determined to find a new route to Asia by heading west. As the three ships went toward the uncharted waters of the Atlantic, doubts and fears filled the crew. They faced weeks of uncertainty and rough seas, but Columbus's belief never wavered. He insisted that going toward the west would eventually bring them to the lands of spices and gold. On the early morning of October 12th, land was sighted, going toward the new world. This was not Asia, but the islands of the Caribbean, leading to the eventual European colonization of the Americas. As Columbus's ships went toward the shores of what is now known as the Bahamas, his journey not only changed geographical understanding but also paved the way for future explorers. Though he never achieved his initial aim of reaching Asia, the impact of Columbus's voyages went toward the establishment of lasting connections between continents.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Go Toward

What is the origin of go toward?

+
The phrasal verb 'go toward' evolved from Middle English, where 'go' was often used with various prepositions to indicate direction or movement. 'Toward' signifies a particular direction or goal.

Can go toward be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
'Go toward' is versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal situations. Its use spans professional reports discussing budget allocations to everyday conversations about physical movement.

What is the difference between go toward and head for?

+
'Go toward' is more general, often referring to movement or allocation in a direction. 'Head for' implies a more determined or conscious effort to reach a specific endpoint.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

contribute tocount towardput towardadd togo into
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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