Direction

Definition

Direction is a noun that refers to the course or path on which something moves or points, as well as guidance or instruction given to achieve a specific goal. It can also describe the management or control of operations or processes.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dəˈrɛkʃən/ or /daɪˈrɛkʃən/
• Respelling: duh-REK-shun or dy-REK-shun

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈrɛkʃən/ or /daɪˈrɛkʃən/
• Respelling: dih-REK-shun or dy-REK-shun

Etymology

The word "direction" originates from the Latin "directio," meaning "arrangement" or "guidance," which is derived from "dirigere," meaning "to direct" or "to guide." It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages.

Derivatives

• Direct (verb/adjective)
• Director (noun)
• Directional (adjective)
• Directed (adjective)
• Indirection (noun)

Synonyms

• Guidance
• Instruction
• Orientation

Antonyms

• Disorder
• Confusion
• Deviation

Usage

The noun "direction" is commonly used to describe a physical path or orientation, as in "The wind changed direction." It also refers to guidance or instructions, as in "She followed the directions on the map." Additionally, it is used in management contexts, such as "He took over the direction of the project."

Related Terms

• Path: The route or course along which something moves.
• Management: The process of controlling or organizing resources or tasks.
• Instruction: Detailed information about how to accomplish something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The course along which someone or something moves: Refers to the physical orientation or path of movement.
  • Example: "The compass shows the direction north."
• Guidance or instructions for achieving a goal: Describes advice or steps provided to complete a task.
  • Example: "The teacher gave clear directions for the assignment."
• The management or control of a project or organization: Used to denote leadership or supervision of processes or activities.
  • Example: "Under her direction, the project was completed ahead of schedule."