Condo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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condo

[หˆkษ’ndษ™สŠ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

real estate

A condominium, often shortened to condo, is a type of living space similar to an apartment but independently sellable and therefore regarded as real estate. Condos are popular in urban areas where space is limited.

Synonyms

apartment, flat, unit.

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Word Description / Examples
condo

Primarily used in North America, a condo (short for condominium) refers to a private apartment that is owned by an individual rather than rented. Condos usually come with shared common areas like gyms and pools.

  • She's moving into a new condo downtown
  • The condo association takes care of the building's maintenance
apartment

Used globally, particularly in North America, an apartment refers to a rented residential unit within a building. Apartments can range in size and amenities.

  • He found a new apartment close to his job
  • They're looking for a two-bedroom apartment with a sea view
flat

Commonly used in British English, a flat refers to a residential unit within a building. It can be either rented or owned and is synonymous with 'apartment' in North American English.

  • She lives in a cosy flat in London
  • They bought a flat near the university
unit

Widely used in Australia and New Zealand, a unit is a term similar to 'apartment' or 'flat,' referring to a self-contained living space within a larger building. It can also be rented or owned.

  • They just moved into a new unit in the city
  • The real estate agent showed us several units in the building

Examples of usage

  • I just bought a condo in the city center.
  • The condo has a beautiful view of the river.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Real Estate

  • Condo developments often include amenities like swimming pools, gyms, and community rooms, appealing to buyers looking for leisure.
  • In certain regions, owning a condo can be more affordable than a traditional single-family home, especially in urban settings.

Cultural Impact

  • Condos often support a lifestyle that emphasizes community living, especially in bustling cities where space is limited.
  • They are popular among young professionals and retirees alike, who appreciate the lower maintenance responsibilities compared to single-family homes.

Architecture

  • Many modern condos showcase innovative designs, including eco-friendly features and efficient use of small spaces.
  • Luxury condos may feature high-end materials and stunning views, reflecting the lifestyle of their residents.

Legal Aspects

  • Condo ownership differs from apartment rental, where residents own or finance their individual units but share ownership of common areas.
  • Many condos have homeowners' associations (HOAs) which manage rules and maintenance, contributing to community standards.

Origin of 'condo'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'condominium' comes from Latin, meaning 'joint ownership.' It shows that many people share a space while owning their own unit.
  • The abbreviation 'condo' became popular in the United States in the 1960s as more buildings were developed in this style.

The term 'condo' originated in the 1960s in the United States as a short form of 'condominium.' Condominiums were first introduced as a concept in the 19th century in Europe and have since evolved into a popular form of housing in many countries.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,696, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.