need help with directions

[catbert]

I never understood - why is it "north-west corner" of some intersection, and not "north-western"? Generally, when should I use one and when - the other?

And what's "north-westerly"? As of wind, for instance?

 

[cereal_chick]

I don't think it is supposed to be "north-west corner". Why? Because I have a hunch it's not. I don't know for sure though, but either way you would be understood regardless of which one you said/wrote.

"North-westerly" refers to a direction of motion, and is most often used for wind direction.

[Not a teacher]

 

[billmcd]

North West(ern) refers to location (either is OK in AmE). North Westerly refers to direction.

 

[SoothingDave]

"Northwest corner" is fine by me. Saying "northwestern corner" sounds odd.

It seems to me that directional words are used in their plain form as adjectives usually. Where I work we have a north gate and a south gate. Not a northern gate and southern gate.

Parking at the hockey arena in town is at the east lot, north lot, or south lot.

 

[catbert]

"Northwest corner" is fine by me. Saying "northwestern corner" sounds odd.

It seems to me that directional words are used in their plain form as adjectives usually. Where I work we have a north gate and a south gate. Not a northern gate and southern gate.

Parking at the hockey arena in town is at the east lot, north lot, or south lot.

It's just that it seems to me the word itself would indicate a general direction, as in compass point ("we are going east"), whereas the "ern" suffix would indicate possession.

I also don't understand the "due" thing, as in "three miles due south". Why would you add "due"? Why not just say "south"?

 

[SoothingDave]

It's just that it seems to me the word itself would indicate a general direction, as in compass point ("we are going east"), whereas the "ern" suffix would indicate possession.

I also don't understand the "due" thing, as in "three miles due south". Why would you add "due"? Why not just say "south"?

I'm just telling you what I see used. It is the north gate, not the northern gate.

The "due" in "due south" means exactly south. Not off by a degree or two, but truly south. It's not strictly necessary in most cases. Just consider it an idiomatic phrase.

 

[catbert]

I'm just telling you what I see used. It is the north gate, not the northern gate.

Oh, I realize that's how people say it , I was just hoping for more of an explanation as to why.

 

[catbert]

Anyone?