Word: Inward

Pronunciation

/ˈɪnwərd/

Definitions

• Adjective: Directed or moving towards the inside; interior or internal. For example: “The door opened inward.”
• Adverb: Towards the inside; internally. For example: “She turned inward, deep in thought.”
• Noun (rarely used): The inner part or aspect of something. For example: “The inward workings of the machine.”

Adjective Definitions and Examples

• Describing something that is situated or directed towards the inside: “He took an inward step to avoid the swinging door.”
  • “There was an inward courtyard where we could sit in privacy.”
• Relating to one’s thoughts or feelings: “An inward sense of peace washed over her.”
  • “His inward struggle with depression was not apparent to others.”

Adverb Definitions and Examples

• Indicating movement or direction towards the inside: “She gazed inward at the bustling crowd.”
  • “He sighed deeply and looked inward, reflecting on his day.”

Noun Usage and Example

• Referring to the inner part or essence of something: “The inward beauty of the sculpture was revealed when the light hit it just right.”
  • “Understanding the inward complexities of the issue is crucial.”

Phrases

• “Inward reflection”: Introspection or contemplation about one’s own thoughts or emotions.
• “Turn inward”: To focus on one’s own thoughts or feelings rather than external surroundings.
• “Inward investment”: Money invested within a country by foreigners or its own citizens.

Example Sentences

• Adjective: “Her inward smile showed she was happy despite her outward frown.”
• Adverb: “He moved the bookshelf slightly inward to make space for the new painting.”
• Noun: “The inward strength she drew upon helped her overcome the challenge.”

Synonyms

• Internal
• Interior
• Inside
• Inner
• Core
• Centre
• Heart (in some contexts)