# Southwest

/ˌsaʊθˈwɛst/ (US) · /saʊθwˈɛst/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/southwest
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. compass direction

noun · CEFR A2

the direction that is exactly between south and west.

For teachers: the intercardinal compass point halfway between south and west, specifically at a bearing of 225°.

- The wind was blowing from the southwest all afternoon.
- The hikers adjusted their course toward the southwest to avoid the steep cliffs on the eastern side of the ridge.

Usage: Often used with the definite article 'the'.

### 2. a region

noun · CEFR B1

a part of a country or area that is in the southwest direction.

For teachers: a geographical area or region situated in the southwestern part of a country or territory.

- It is much hotter and drier in the southwest of the country.
- Economic growth in the southwest has outpaced the national average due to the recent expansion of the technology sector.

Usage: Usually capitalized when referring to a specific, recognized region (e.g., the Southwest).

### 3. position or origin

adjective · CEFR A2

located in the southwest or coming from that direction.

For teachers: situated toward, pertaining to, or originating from the southwest.

- We entered the city through the southwest gate.
- The southwest monsoon brings heavy rainfall to the coastal regions during the summer months.

Usage: Typically placed before the noun it modifies.

### 4. towards the southwest

adverb · CEFR B1

towards the direction of the southwest.

For teachers: in a direction toward the southwest.

- The birds flew southwest as the weather began to turn cold.
- After crossing the river, the road turns southwest and follows the coastline for several miles.

Usage: Follows the verb of motion.

## Examples

- The birds are flying toward the southwest.
- Many people travel to the southwest of the country during the winter to enjoy the warmer desert climate.
- The prevailing winds from the southwest brought a sudden shift in humidity, signaling the arrival of the seasonal monsoon rains that the local farmers had been expecting.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.