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direction

n. C / U
A2 Elementary Oxford US //daɪˈɹɛkʃɪn// UK //daɪɹˈɛkʃən// di·rec·tion Archaic General-service

n. the way or path someone or something moves toward. It can also mean instructions that tell you how to do something or where to go.

n. the course along which someone or something moves, or the point toward which something faces. Also refers to instructions for reaching a destination or performing a task.


SIMPLE

We are driving in the wrong direction.

CONTEXTUAL

If you are lost, you can ask a local person for directions to the nearest train station.

COMPLEX

The project took a completely new direction after the committee decided to prioritize environmental sustainability over immediate profit margins.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English direccioun, from Old French direccion, from Latin dīrēctiō. Equivalent to direct + -ion.

Usage

Often used in the plural ('directions') when referring to specific instructions for travel or assembly.

Pitfall

Can you give me a direction to the hotel?Can you give me directions to the hotel?When asking for the path to a destination, the plural form 'directions' is required.

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