Metropolis Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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metropolis
[mɪˈtrɒpəlɪs ]
Definitions
city
A very large and important city, especially the main city or capital of a country.
Synonyms
city, megalopolis, urban center.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| metropolis |
Use this word to refer to a large and significant city, often a key economic, cultural, or political hub. It's suitable for formal contexts.
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| city |
This is a general term for any large town or populated urban area. It's suitable for everyday use and casual conversations.
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| urban center |
This is a broad term for the central part of any urban area. It's used mainly in discussions about urban planning or demographics.
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| megalopolis |
This term describes a very large city or a region that includes several large cities and their surrounding areas. It is often used in academic or formal discussions about urban development.
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Examples of usage
- New York City is considered a metropolis with its large population and economic significance.
- Tokyo is a bustling metropolis known for its advanced technology and vibrant culture.
film
A classic science fiction film directed by Fritz Lang in 1927, depicting a futuristic city where society is divided into the elite above ground and the workers below.
Synonyms
cinema, motion picture, movie.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| metropolis |
This word is typically used to describe a large and significant city, often the main city in a region or country. It suggests a bustling, highly populated area with significant cultural, economic, and political importance.
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| movie |
A common and casual term used to refer to a film. It's widely used in everyday conversation.
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| cinema |
This term is often used to refer to a place where people watch films — a movie theater. It can also refer to the art or industry of making movies.
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| motion picture |
A more formal term for a movie. It is often used in academic and industry contexts or when emphasizing the art or technical aspects of filmmaking.
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Examples of usage
- Metropolis is a groundbreaking film that has inspired many other works in the science fiction genre.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In literature and film, metropolises are often portrayed as places of opportunity and adventure, but also of chaos and struggle.
- Many iconic works, like 'Metropolis' (1927), explore themes of urban life, technology, and class struggles in big cities.
Urban Studies
- Metropolises often serve as cultural melting pots, bringing together diverse communities and languages.
- They typically feature advanced infrastructure, including public transport systems, skyscrapers, and entertainment hubs.
Economics
- Major economic activities in metropolises can include finance, technology, trade, and entertainment, making them vital to national economies.
- They often attract a significant percentage of a country's population, contributing greatly to economic growth.
Environmental Impact
- Metropolises face unique environmental challenges, such as air pollution, waste management, and urban heat islands.
- Efforts are underway in many cities to promote green spaces and sustainable practices to minimize ecological footprints.
Origin of 'metropolis'
Main points about word origin
- The term originates from the Greek words 'meter' (mother) and 'polis' (city), meaning 'mother city'.
- In ancient times, a metropolis was often the central city that controlled smaller towns nearby.
The word 'metropolis' originated from the Greek words 'meta' (meaning 'beyond' or 'larger') and 'polis' (meaning 'city'). It was first used in English in the late 16th century to refer to the chief city of a region, especially the capital. Over time, 'metropolis' has come to symbolize not just a city, but a large and influential urban center with cultural, economic, and political significance.