Apartments Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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apartments
[ษหpษหrtmษnts ]
Definitions
rental housing
A set of rooms for living in, usually on one floor of a building. Apartments are usually rented rather than owned.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| apartments |
Plural of 'apartment,' referring to more than one housing unit of this kind.
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| flat |
Commonly used in British English and other varieties outside North America to describe a self-contained housing unit that occupies part of a building.
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| unit |
A more generic term, often used in Australia and New Zealand, to describe any self-contained housing space within a larger building or complex.
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| condo |
Short for 'condominium,' often used in the United States and Canada to refer to a privately owned unit within a building that has shared amenities.
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Examples of usage
- The apartment has a spacious living room and two bedrooms.
- She lives in a small apartment in the city.
- I am looking for a new apartment to rent.
- They are renovating the apartment next door.
- We have a view of the city from our apartment.
building layout
A self-contained housing unit that occupies only part of a building. Apartments can vary in size and layout.
Synonyms
accommodation, dwelling, residence.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| apartments |
Use this word when talking about individual living units within a larger building, typically in urban areas. Ideal for housing situations where multiple families or individuals live in separate units.
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| accommodation |
This term is broader and can refer to any place where people stay temporarily or semi-permanently, including hotels, hostels, or rented rooms. It is also used to describe living arrangements when traveling or studying.
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Examples of usage
- The building has several apartments on each floor.
- Our apartment is on the top floor of the building.
- She has a cozy apartment with a balcony.
- They are converting the building into luxury apartments.
- The apartments in this complex have modern amenities.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The concept of multi-family living started in ancient Rome, where insulae provided housing for many families.
- The word 'apartment' originates from the French word 'appartement', meaning a part of a building.
- In the 19th century, apartments began to be built in cities to address overcrowding as urban populations grew.
Architecture
- Modern apartment designs often include open floor plans to maximize space and light.
- High-rise apartments are common in urban areas, utilizing vertical space for housing.
- Sustainable apartment buildings now incorporate green technology, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting.
Social Trends
- Living in an apartment is increasingly popular among young professionals due to lower maintenance and costs.
- Co-living spaces, where individuals rent private rooms and share common areas, have emerged as a modern living trend.
- Apartments often foster community interaction and events among residents, enhancing social ties.
Cultural Impact
- Apartments have been featured in countless movies and TV shows, often reflecting urban lifestyles and relationships.
- In many cultures, apartment living symbolizes independence, especially among young adults moving out on their own.
- The design and layout of apartments can influence social behavior, encouraging neighbors to interact more or remain private.
Economic Factors
- The real estate market often fluctuates based on demand for apartments, influenced by economic conditions.
- Renting apartments can be a more affordable living option compared to buying a house, particularly in metropolitan areas.
- In global cities, the rise of luxury apartments has created a dichotomy between high-end living and affordable housing shortages.
Origin of 'apartments'
The term 'apartment' originated from the Italian word 'appartamento', meaning 'a separated place'. It was first used in English in the 17th century to refer to self-contained living spaces within a larger building. Over time, the concept of apartments has evolved to represent a popular form of urban housing, offering convenience and community living.