Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

City Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ™๏ธ
Add to dictionary

city

[หˆsษชti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

inhabited place

A large town or urban area, typically one with a population of over 100,000.

Synonyms

metropolis, municipality, urban center.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
city

Commonly used to refer to large and important towns with significant populations and infrastructure.

  • New York is one of the largest cities in the world.
  • They decided to move to the city for better job opportunities.
metropolis

Used to describe very large and densely populated cities that are often important cultural, economic, or political centers.

  • Tokyo is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant culture.
  • The metropolis is known for its skyscrapers and busy streets.
urban center

Generally used in a broader sense to refer to central areas of cities where activities like business, shopping, and entertainment are concentrated.

  • The urban center is full of shops, restaurants, and theaters.
  • They wanted to build a new park in the urban center to provide more green spaces.
municipality

Often used in a more formal or administrative context to refer to a city or town with its own local government.

  • The municipality of Springfield passed a new law regarding waste management.
  • She works for the municipality in the zoning department.

Examples of usage

  • The city of New York is known for its skyscrapers.
  • Tokyo is a bustling city with a vibrant culture.
  • I grew up in a small town but always dreamed of living in a big city.
Context #2 | Noun

municipal government

A local government administrative center.

Synonyms

local authority, municipality, town hall.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
city

Redundant as a repetition. Same explanation and examples as above.
local authority

The administrative body governing a smaller area within a city, such as a borough or district. Used when referring to the governing body and its functions.

  • The local authority decided to increase funding for public schools
  • Residents can contact their local authority for waste management services
municipality

Refers to a town or city having its own local government. Used in legal or administrative contexts.

  • The municipality implemented new parking regulations
  • Each municipality must adhere to national policies
town hall

A building serving as the administrative office of a town's local government. Often used when referring to a location where public meetings are held.

  • The community meeting will be held at the town hall
  • The mayor's office is located in the town hall

Examples of usage

  • The city council voted to increase property taxes.
  • The mayor oversees the operations of the city.
  • The city government is responsible for maintaining public services.

Translations

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

Origin of 'city'

The word 'city' originated from the Old French word 'cite', which in turn came from the Latin word 'civitas' meaning 'citizenship' or 'community of citizens'. Cities have been an integral part of human civilization for thousands of years, evolving from small settlements to large urban centers with diverse populations and cultures.

See also: cityscape.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #274, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.