A1noun1K

West

UK /["/west/"]/US /["/west/"]/

Definition

the direction that you look towards to see the sun go down; one of the four main points of the compass

In simple words: The direction opposite of east.

Examples

  • She lives in the West part of the city.
  • In the West, the sun sets later than in the East.
  • We traveled west towards the mountains.
  • The West is known for its diverse cultures.
  • He pointed to the west and said the beach is that way.

Usage notes

Used for directions, geography, and symbolism. More common in neutral or geographic contexts; less appropriate in poetic or literary contexts where directions might be more abstract.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of the 'Setting Sun' – it sets in the west.

Collocations

  • west coast
  • west side
  • west wind

Synonyms

  • westward
  • occidental
  • left

Antonyms

  • east

Common mistakes

  • Confused with cardinal directions like 'east' and 'north'.
  • Misusing 'west' when describing a location that is actually east.
  • Not capitalizing 'West' when referring to a specific region (e.g., Western countries).