Basic Details
Word: Inward
Part of Speech: Adjective, Adverb
Meaning: Towards the inside or centre; directed towards oneself.
Synonyms: Internal, inner, inwardly
Antonyms: Outward, external, exterior
Idioms and Phrases
- Turn inward: To focus on one's thoughts and feelings rather than what is outside. Example: "After her busy week, she decided to turn inward and reflect on her goals."
- Inward journey: A process of self-discovery and personal reflection. Example: "His trip to the mountains became an inward journey, helping him find peace within."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She took a deep breath, allowing her thoughts to turn inward during the meditation session.
Example 2: The inward path through the forest led us to a beautiful hidden lake.
Example 3: His inward reflection helped him realise what truly mattered in life.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "inward" comes from Old English, where "in" meant "inside" and "weard" meant "ward" or "towards"? It has been used for centuries to describe movements or thoughts directed towards the inside.
Famous Quote
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step." - Lao Tzu. This quote reminds us that sometimes, the most important journey is the inward journey.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "inward" mean?
a) Moving outside
b) Moving towards the inside
c) Moving in a circle
d) Moving to the top
Answer: b) Moving towards the inside
2. Which of these is a synonym of "inward"?
a) External
b) Outer
c) Internal
d) Outward
Answer: c) Internal
3. Which sentence uses "inward" correctly?
a) The outward journey was very tiring.
b) She took an inward look at her emotions.
c) The flower bloomed inward towards the sun.
d) The car moved inward onto the road.
Answer: b) She took an inward look at her emotions.
4. Which idiom means to focus on your thoughts and feelings?
a) Look outward
b) Turn inward
c) Go around in circles
d) Jump for joy
Answer: b) Turn inward
5. What is the opposite of "inward"?
a) Upward
b) N/A
c) Downward
d) Outward
Answer: d) Outward
