Words / A2

OWTW-uh-d/ˈaʊtwəd/

Outward describes the going-away part of a trip: the outward journey, outward flight, outward bound. Return is the coming-back contrast (return ticket, return journey). Outwards is the adverb (move outwards). Inside is not the travel opposite. Do not write outward when you mean awkward, or outward as “looking confident” (later extra).

Meaning

Going away from a place, not returning.

Examples

• “The outward journey was delayed by fog.”
• “Keep the outward ticket until you board the return train.”
• “The outward ferry was full; the evening boat was quieter.”

Good to know

the outward journey / flight. Contrast: return. Adverb: outwards. Mix-up: awkward.

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