plural noun
The different ways in which people or things move, point, or face.
/dɪˈɹɛk.ʃn̩z/Main pronunciation/daɪˈɹɛk.ʃn̩z/Full-vowel alternate
The arrows point in different directions.
The birds flew in opposite directions.
American English
How to pronounce directions
nounB1Very common word
derEHKshnz
/dɚˈɛk.ʃn̩z/
3 syllables · Stress the second syllable.
Form of direction
The different ways in which people or things move, point, or face.
What to listen for
“Directions” can begin with /dɪ-/ or /daɪ-/; the reduced-vowel form is shown first.
Main pronunciation/dɪˈɹɛk.ʃn̩z/
Full-vowel alternate/daɪˈɹɛk.ʃn̩z/
Meanings & examples
plural noun
Information that tells you how to get somewhere or how to do something.
/dɪˈɹɛk.ʃn̩z/Main pronunciation/daɪˈɹɛk.ʃn̩z/Full-vowel alternate
She asked for directions to the nearest café.
The teacher gave clear directions for the assignment.
Good to know
For route help or step-by-step instructions, use directions in the plural, not usually direction.
plural noun
Guidance or plans that show a person, group, or project what course to follow.
/dɪˈɹɛk.ʃn̩z/Main pronunciation/daɪˈɹɛk.ʃn̩z/Full-vowel alternate
The company is exploring new directions.
The report suggests several directions for future research.
Useful expressions
Toward a good result or goal.
Your work is going in the right direction.
The ability to know where you are and which way to go.
I have a poor sense of direction.
Toward the other side or the other way.
The bus is going in the opposite direction.