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Car Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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car

[kɑːr ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

transportation

A car is a wheeled motor vehicle used for transportation. Most definitions of cars say that they run primarily on roads, seat one to eight people, have four tires, and mainly transport people rather than goods.

Synonyms

auto, automobile, vehicle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
car

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to a personal motor vehicle. Suitable for casual or informal settings.

  • I need to get my car serviced this weekend.
  • She bought a new car last month.
automobile

More formal and technical term for a motor vehicle. Suitable for official documents, technical articles, or formal speeches.

  • The automobile industry is facing many challenges.
  • Please follow all automobile safety regulations.
vehicle

A more general term that can refer to any means of transport, such as cars, trucks, buses, etc. Suitable for both formal and informal settings.

  • All vehicles must pass an emissions test.
  • What kind of vehicle do you drive?
auto

Mostly used in informal speech or writing. More common in American English. Often used in compound words like 'auto shop.'

  • He's really into auto repair.
  • I found a good deal on a used auto.

Examples of usage

  • Her car broke down on the highway.
  • I need to fill up my car with gas.
Context #2 | Noun

ownership

A car can also refer to the ownership or possession of a vehicle. It is a symbol of independence and mobility for many people.

Synonyms

auto, automobile, vehicle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
car

This is the most common term used in everyday conversation to refer to personal motor vehicles.

  • I just bought a new car.
  • Where did you park your car?
automobile

This is a formal term that is often used in written English, legal contexts, or historical references.

  • The history of the automobile dates back over a century.
  • He is studying automobile engineering.
vehicle

This is a general term that refers to anything used for transporting people or goods, including cars, trucks, buses, and bicycles. It is often used in more formal or technical contexts.

  • Police found the stolen vehicle abandoned by the river.
  • All commercial vehicles must pass an emissions test.
auto

This term is more often used in the automotive industry or in technical discussions. It may sometimes be used casually, but it's less common.

  • The auto industry is seeing a lot of changes this year.
  • What's the auto insurance rate for a sedan?

Examples of usage

  • She just bought a new car.
  • I'm thinking of selling my old car.
Context #3 | Noun

racing

In the context of racing, a car is a high-speed vehicle designed for competition. Racing cars can vary from Formula 1 cars to rally cars.

Synonyms

race car, racer, vehicle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
car

Use 'car' to generally refer to a motor vehicle used for transporting people.

  • I bought a new car last week.
  • Her car broke down on the way to the office.
race car

Use 'race car' to specifically refer to a car that is built or modified for racing.

  • He drives a race car in the local drag racing competitions.
  • The new race car model has enhanced aerodynamics.
racer

Use 'racer' to refer to either a person who competes in races or a vehicle used for racing. It can also have a casual or informal tone.

  • She's a professional racer and has won many championships.
  • The old racer still performs well on the track.
vehicle

Use 'vehicle' to broadly refer to any motorized conveyance, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles. It is more general than 'car' and can be used in formal contexts.

  • Make sure your vehicle is in good condition before a long road trip.
  • Electric vehicles are becoming more popular every year.

Examples of usage

  • He drives a racing car for a living.
  • The team is working on improving the car's performance.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'car' comes from the Latin word 'carrus', meaning a wheeled vehicle.
  • The first powered vehicle was created by Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot in 1769, which was a steam-powered tricycle.
  • Henry Ford revolutionized car production with the assembly line in 1913, making cars affordable for many.

Pop Culture

  • Many movies and TV shows, such as 'Fast & Furious', celebrate cars and the thrill of racing.
  • The animated film 'Cars' features talking vehicles, highlighting their personalities and friendships.
  • Brands like Ferrari and Porsche symbolize luxury and speed, becoming iconic in car culture.

Science and Technology

  • Electric cars are gaining popularity due to their environmentally friendly features and advanced technology.
  • Autonomous vehicles, or self-driving cars, use artificial intelligence and sensors to navigate without a driver.
  • The average car in the U.S. produces about 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year, emphasizing the importance of cleaner alternatives.

Economics

  • The automobile industry is a major contributor to the global economy, providing millions of jobs worldwide.
  • In 2020, despite the pandemic, car sales showed resilience as many people sought personal transportation.
  • Insurance, fuel, and maintenance are significant ongoing costs of car ownership, influencing consumer decisions.

Sociology

  • Cars have transformed urban landscapes, leading to the development of suburbs and highways.
  • Car ownership often reflects social status and can influence people's daily lives and work habits.
  • Car culture can foster a sense of community or identity among enthusiasts, particularly at car shows and meet-ups.

Origin of 'car'

The word 'car' originated from the Middle English word 'carre', which meant a two-wheeled cart for goods. It evolved over time to refer to motor vehicles used for transportation. The first cars powered by internal combustion engines were developed in the late 19th century, leading to the modern automobile industry.

See also: carat, caravan, carcass, carouse, carp, carpet, carport, carriage.

Word Frequency Rank

At #799 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.