Words / C1

STEER/stɪə/

To steer is to guide the direction of a vehicle, discussion, or organisation: steer a debate, steer clear of. Guide and direct are everyday; a steer (noun, informal UK) is a hint; a steering group advises. Do not steer an inquiry toward the font and away from the badge log.

Meaning

To guide the direction of a vehicle, discussion, or organisation.

Examples

• “Steer the inquiry toward the badge log, not the font on the poster.”
• “Guide is everyday. Direct can be stronger. Navigate is a cousin. A bullock is a steer — a lookalike noun. A hint in a corridor is not a finding. Follow the log; the typeface can wait.”

Good to know

Guide the direction of. Everyday: guide. Informal noun: a steer (a hint). Mix-up: a steer (animal). Fonts are not the inquiry.

Near in meaning

guide

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