Location Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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location

[ləʊˈkeɪʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

geographical

A particular place or position.

Synonyms

place, site, spot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
location

This term is typically used in a general context to refer to any specific place, often in a more neutral or formal setting, such as for addresses or geographic descriptions.

  • The new restaurant is opening at a downtown location
  • Our office location is easy to find on the map
place

This is a very general term used in everyday conversation to refer to any area or position, often where something happens or is situated.

  • Let's meet at my place
  • This park is a great place for a picnic
site

Used more specifically to refer to a specific area of land or a space designated for a particular purpose, often involving construction, historical landmarks, or internet addresses.

  • The construction site is off-limits to unauthorized personnel
  • The ancient ruins are an important archaeological site
spot

This term is often used informally to refer to a specific point or small area, frequently when talking about finding a particular location or a favorite corner.

  • This is my favorite spot in the library
  • We found a great spot to watch the sunset

Examples of usage

  • The location of the new store is very convenient.
  • We need to determine the location of the lost keys.
Context #2 | Noun

technology

A point or area on a map, especially when described in terms of latitude and longitude.

Synonyms

coordinates, position, site.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
location

Use when referring to a specific place in general terms. Decent for both formal and informal settings.

  • The movie was filmed on location in New York City.
  • Can you send me the location of the party?
position

Used when discussing the placement or arrangement of objects or individuals. Can be slightly more formal.

  • Can you move the chair into a better position?
  • The position of the stars is important in navigation.
coordinates

Ideal when precision is required, especially in navigation, mapping, and scientific contexts.

  • The GPS coordinates of the school are 40.7128° N, 74.0060° W.
  • Pilots need to know the exact coordinates for landing.
site

Refers to a specific place where something happens or is situated. Often used in construction, archaeology, and events.

  • The building site is just around the corner.
  • They're setting up a new archaeological dig at the site.

Examples of usage

  • The GPS system can help you find your location easily.
  • The location of the treasure was marked on the map.
Context #3 | Noun

film industry

A place where a movie or television show is filmed or made.

Synonyms

scene, setting, venue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
location

Use this word to describe a specific place or position where something is situated or occurs. It is often used in both general and technical contexts.

  • The location of the new restaurant is perfect for attracting tourists.
  • Make sure to note the location of the emergency exits.
setting

Refers to the environment or surrounding in which an event or story takes place, often used in literature and film.

  • The setting of the novel is a remote village in the mountains.
  • The romantic setting of the restaurant made the evening special.
scene

Typically used to describe the setting of an event, particularly in a play, movie, or real-life incident. It often has a dramatic connotation.

  • The final scene of the movie was very moving.
  • When I arrived, the scene was chaotic with police everywhere.
venue

Primarily refers to the place where an event or gathering is held, often used in formal or specific contexts like meetings, concerts, weddings, etc.

  • The venue for the wedding was a beautiful countryside estate.
  • This stadium is a popular venue for major sporting events.

Examples of usage

  • The director scouted for the perfect location for the film shoot.
  • The location for the next scene was a beautiful beach.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Geography

  • Geographic coordinates like latitude and longitude help precisely identify a location on Earth.
  • Locations can be described as relative (near to something else) or absolute (exact coordinates).
  • Landmarks often serve as references that help people understand the locations of different places.

Technology

  • GPS technology uses satellite signals to provide exact location information to devices.
  • The rise of location-based services has transformed how we interact with travel, shopping, and social media.
  • Apps often use your location to suggest nearby restaurants, stores, or activities.

Culture

  • Different cultures may have unique values tied to location, such as indigenous relationships with land.
  • In literature, the setting of a story is often referred to as its location, influencing the plot and characters.
  • Movies often highlight key locations, giving them significance beyond just their physical space.

Psychology

  • Research shows that our surroundings (location) can affect our mood and behavior.
  • Familiar locations can trigger memories and feelings, impacting our emotional state.
  • Certain locations may be perceived as safe or threatening based on past experiences.

Origin of 'location'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'locatio', meaning 'a place or position'.
  • In the 15th century, it started being used in English, emphasizing both physical and abstract positions.
  • Related words like 'locate', 'locator', and 'local' all share the same root meaning.

The word 'location' originated from the Latin word 'locatio' which means 'a placing, positioning, or situation'. Over time, the term evolved to encompass various meanings related to place, position, and setting in different contexts such as geography, technology, and the film industry.


See also: dislocate, dislocation, locatable, located, locating, locations, locatively, locator, relocatable, relocate.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,339, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.