Synonyms for

Steer

Verb / stɪr / Another word for steer — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To guide or control the movement of (a vehicle, vessel, animal, or person) in a particular direction

Synonyms & similar words

head manoeuver point tip guide maneuver channelise lead direct manoeuvre channelize wind confidentialinformation hint bullock guide direct navigate pilot control manage maneuver drive operate conduct command lead instruct channel herd corral bring take escort

Synonyms by register

Formal

guide direct navigate manage

Informal

point aim head drive

Literary

pilot shepherd conduct

Antonyms

drift wander meander stray rove languish

Common collocations

  • steer a course
  • steer clear of
  • steer the conversation
  • steer the ship
  • steer the economy
  • steer the debate
  • steer a vehicle

Word family

noun steerage
verb steer
adjective steerable

Usage note

Primarily used to describe directing the movement of a vehicle or guiding a process. 'Steer clear of' is a common idiom meaning to avoid something.

Example sentences

  1. I had to steer my bike to avoid hitting the curb.
  2. The captain had to steer the ship through the storm.
  3. The rancher had to steer the cattle into the pen.
  4. The teacher had to steer the students towards the correct answer.
  5. I had to steer the conversation away from politics.

Quotes

  • The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails.
  • You cannot change the direction of the wind, but you can adjust your sails to always reach your destination.
  • The only way to do great work is to love what you do.

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