向
direction; face; approach; favor; towards
Meanings
7 senses · 35 examplesnoun
direction; orientation
Refers to spatial orientation or abstract direction.
He is moving in the right direction.
The wind changed direction, and the boat began to turn.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
My ambition is to become a doctor.
The magnetic needle always points north.
We need to clarify the direction of future development.
verb
to face; to be directed towards
Refers to physical orientation of facing something.
This room faces south and has good lighting.
He stood facing the podium.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
Our classroom faces the garden.
The two people walked towards each other and soon met.
The monument was built facing east.
verb
to approach; to be close to
literaryLiterary usage indicating approaching a time or state.
As dawn approached, they finally reached the mountaintop.
The sky took on a beautiful red color towards evening.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
As dusk approached, the village gradually quieted down.
As morning approached, the sound of roosters crowing came from afar.
He began learning painting in his old age.
verb
to favor; to side with
informalIndicates showing partiality or favoritism.
Teachers should not favor any student.
He clearly favored his subordinates when handling this matter.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
Referees cannot favor either team.
As the saying goes: Townsmen favor townsmen.
Parents should not show favoritism among siblings.
preposition
towards; in the direction of
Indicates direction of an action or movement.
If we walk east, we can reach the station.
We should learn from advanced workers.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
China is moving from victory to new victory.
He waved goodbye to me.
Please turn left and then go straight.
noun
surname Xiang
Refers to the Chinese surname Xiang.
His surname is Xiang; he was my college classmate.
Mr. Xiang is the general manager of this company.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
Teacher Xiang teaches us mathematics.
Xiang is not a very common surname.
I know a doctor surnamed Xiang.
adverb
always; all along;向来
Indicates something has been true for a long time.
He has always been engaged in historical research.
Our school has never had such a case before and cannot make an exception for you.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
She has always gotten up early to exercise.
The service at this restaurant has always been good.
I have never liked eating very spicy food.