Car: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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?

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.

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?

This is a formal term that is often used in written English, legal contexts, or historical references.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

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.