Commuters Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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commuters

[kəˈmjuːtərz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

daily routine

Commuters are people who travel regularly to work or school, typically by public transport or car. They often have a set schedule for their commute and may face challenges such as traffic congestion or delays.

Synonyms

passengers, riders, travelers.

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Word Description / Examples
commuters

Used to describe people who travel regularly between their home and workplace, usually using public or private transportation.

  • Every morning, the train is filled with commuters heading to the city.
  • Commuters often face delays during rush hour.
travelers

Applicable to people who go on trips or journeys, usually implying longer distances or international travel, not necessarily for daily commuting.

  • Travelers often face long lines at airport security.
  • The city sees many travelers during the holiday season.
riders

Typically used for individuals using and riding on motorcycles, bicycles, or public transport like buses and subways. It can sometimes have a casual or adventurous connotation.

  • Bike riders must wear helmets for safety.
  • The subway was crowded with riders during the evening rush.
passengers

Refers to individuals traveling in any vehicle but not driving it. This term is general and can be used for planes, buses, cars, or trains.

  • The flight had over 200 passengers on board.
  • Passengers are required to fasten their seatbelts for safety.

Examples of usage

  • Many commuters take the train to the city every morning.
  • She joined the carpool to save money and reduce her carbon footprint during her commute.
  • The city has invested in improving public transportation to make it easier for commuters to get to work.
  • Commuters often listen to podcasts or music during their journey.
  • During rush hour, commuters may experience overcrowding on public transport.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Transportation

  • Many commuters rely on public transport, which can reduce traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions.
  • In some cities, dedicated commuter trains or buses operate during peak hours to accommodate the high volume of travelers.
  • Carpooling has become increasingly popular among commuters, helping to save money and reduce environmental impact.

Urban Planning

  • Cities often plan infrastructure around commuter needs, building roads, public transportation systems, and parking facilities.
  • Commuter patterns can influence real estate prices, with housing closer to city centers often being more expensive.
  • Urban sprawl, where cities expand into surrounding areas, directly affects how far commuters travel daily.

Social Aspects

  • Remote working trends have dramatically altered commuting habits, leading more people to work from home instead.
  • Commuting can lead to social isolation, as long travel times might reduce opportunities for community interaction.
  • Conversely, commuting can foster social connections among travelers who share the same routes or participate in active commuting like biking together.

Psychology

  • The daily commute can impact mental health, with longer travel times often linked to increased stress levels.
  • Research suggests that listening to music or podcasts during the commute can improve mood and make the journey more enjoyable.
  • Some studies show that commuters may experience a feeling of routine or control over their day, creating a structured start and end.

Origin of 'commuters'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'commute', which has roots in Latin 'commutare', meaning 'to change' or 'exchange'.
  • Initially, it referred to someone who exchanged one place for another, particularly in terms of travel for work.
  • The use of 'commuter' gained popularity in the United States during the rise of suburban living in the 19th century.

The term 'commuters' originated in the mid-19th century and is derived from the Latin word 'commutare', meaning 'to change'. The concept of commuting became more prevalent with the rise of industrialization and urbanization, as people needed to travel to work from their homes outside the city. Over time, commuting has become a common aspect of modern life, with millions of people around the world participating in daily commutes.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,502, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.