Upward can be an adjective or an adverb, while upwards is always an adverb.
- The upward force of the water was so strong that the kayak appeared to skim the surface.
- Hikers in the Rockies find that the trees are shorter as they climb upward (or upwards).
The phrase upwards of is an informal expression meaning “at least” or “more than.”
- Informal: The Department will invest upwards of $6 billion over the next 10 years.
- Standard: The Department will invest at least $6 billion over the next 10 years.
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