direct

1 to cause to move to a central point or along a restricted pathway

the aqueduct directs the water into an artificial lake

Synonyms of direct

canalize, channel, channelize, conduct, funnel, pipe, siphon (also syphon)

Words Related to direct

carry, convey, transmit

concentrate, consolidate, focus

2 to issue orders to (someone) by right of authority

our tour guide directed us to wait in front of the building until she could rejoin us

Synonyms of direct

adjure, bid, boss (around), charge, command, enjoin, instruct, order, tell

Words Related to direct

ask, petition, request

beg, beseech, entreat

advise, counsel, warn

appoint, assign, authorize, commission

oversee, superintend, supervise

conduct, control, lead, manage

coerce, compel, constrain, force, oblige, require

Near Antonyms of direct

comply (with), follow, keep, observe

Antonyms of direct

mind, obey

3 to request the doing of by virtue of one's authority

the caretaker directed that all of the windows be closed before we left

Synonyms of direct

call, command, decree, dictate, mandate, ordain, order

Words Related to direct

ask, petition, request

demand, require

Phrases Synonymous with direct

call for

Near Antonyms of direct

cancel, countermand, rescind

4 to look after and make decisions about

the music teacher directs both the student orchestra and the marching band

Synonyms of direct

administer, administrate, carry on, conduct, control, govern, guide, handle, keep, manage, operate, overlook, oversee, preside (over), regulate, run, steward, superintend, supervise, tend

Words Related to direct

care (for), mind, watch

lead, pilot, steer

guard, protect, safeguard

micromanage, stage-manage

codirect, comanage

Phrases Synonymous with direct

watch over

5 to point or turn (something) toward a target or goal

we quickly directed our attention toward the noise coming from the rear

Synonyms of direct

aim, bend, cast, head, hold, level, pinpoint, set, train

Words Related to direct

sight

bear, face

concentrate, focus

incline, orient, steer

Near Antonyms of direct

avert, curve, deflect, detour, divert, rechannel, shunt, sidetrack

6 to point out the way for (someone) especially from a position in front

the guide directed the tour through the museum with commendable efficiency and expertise

Synonyms of direct

conduct, guide, lead, marshal (also marshall), pilot, route, show, steer, usher

Words Related to direct

precede

accompany, attend, chaperone (or chaperon), convoy, escort, see

Synonyms and Antonyms of direct

WORD OF THE DAY

bemuse