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direct

Transitive Verb

This verb emphasizes the exercise of authority and the act of guiding a process toward a specific goal. It implies a position of leadership where the speaker is responsible for the overall trajectory and execution of a project or a group of people. In a technical or instructional sense, the word shifts from high-level management to precise orientation, such as pointing a person toward a physical destination or focusing a beam of light. This duality allows the word to bridge the gap between corporate oversight and simple guidance.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon in a sterile office hallway
David

I'm going to direct the IT overhaul personally.

David
Brian
Brian

Just stop messing with the server and let me do it.

💡
David is trying to assert authority over a technical process he does not understand, while Brian is dismissive of his interference.

Meanings

Transitive Verb
[someone][something]

To manage, control, aim, or give instructions.

"She was hired to direct the new marketing campaign."

Examples

The CEO will direct the board on the new strategy.

Collocations & Compounds

direct a project

direct traffic

direct an investigation|I need someone to direct the project.

Phrasal Verbs

direct toward

aim something at a target

He directed his anger toward the manager.

Last Updated: May 27, 2026Report an Error