Place Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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place

[pleษชs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in a specific location

A particular position or point in space.

Synonyms

location, site, spot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
place

A general term used to refer to any area, whether it's a city, a specific building, or a figurative space.

  • This is a nice place to have a picnic.
  • I'm looking for a place to stay during my vacation.
location

Refers to a specific point or position in physical space, often used in formal or technical contexts.

  • The GPS couldn't find the exact location.
  • Their new office location is downtown.
spot

Refers to a particular point or place, often used to describe a small area, sometimes informally.

  • This is a great spot for fishing.
  • Save me a spot at the table.
site

Commonly used to refer to an area of ground on which a town, building, or monument is constructed or will be constructed.

  • The construction site is closed off to the public.
  • This is the site where the ancient ruins were discovered.

Examples of usage

  • This is the perfect place for a picnic.
  • He found a quiet place to read his book.
Context #2 | Verb

put in a particular position

Put in a particular position.

Synonyms

position, put, set.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
place

Use as a noun to refer to a location or area.

  • This park is my favorite place in the city.
  • She saved a place for him at the table.
put

Use for general actions of moving or setting something somewhere, especially in everyday or informal conversation.

  • Can you put the groceries on the counter?
  • I put my keys in the drawer.
position

Use when talking about the specific location or arrangement of something, especially in a formal or technical context.

  • Make sure the paintings are in the correct position on the wall.
  • He was offered a high-level position in the company.
set

Use when you need to arrange or prepare something carefully, often for a specific purpose.

  • Set the table before dinner.
  • She set her alarm for 7 AM.

Examples of usage

  • She placed the vase on the shelf.
  • He carefully placed the keys on the table.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, the concept of place is tied to identity; for example, home is seen as more than a physical structure.
  • In literature, the idea of place often shapes character development, influencing their decisions and journeys.
  • Certain places, like the Grand Canyon or the Eiffel Tower, have become symbols of culture and tourism, attracting millions each year.

Psychology

  • Research shows that a sense of place can affect oneโ€™s emotional well-being, with familiar environments promoting comfort.
  • Place attachment refers to the emotional bond between individuals and specific locations, impacting mental health.
  • Studies indicate that natural places, like parks, can reduce stress and enhance overall happiness.

Geography

  • Geographical terms often reference place, such as urban areas, which consist of a cluster of places that define cities.
  • The concept of 'place' in geography can include physical characteristics (landscape) and human elements (culture, history).
  • In geography, a place is not just defined by coordinates, but by the relationships and interactions within that location.

Art

  • Artists often use the notion of place to convey feelings, representing both real locations and fictional ones in their work.
  • The 'sense of place' is a common theme in visual arts, where landscapes evoke emotions and stories.
  • Place has been portrayed in various art forms, highlighting cultural heritage and local histories, making art deeply connected to locations.

Origin of 'place'

Main points about word origin

  • The word derives from the Latin term 'platza,' meaning an open area or flat space.
  • It has evolved through Old French, reflecting the concept of a location or site.
  • The use of 'place' in English dates back to the 14th century, showing its long-standing importance in language.

The word 'place' originated from the Old French word 'place' meaning 'open space, market square'. It has been in use in the English language since the 13th century. The concept of place has been integral to human existence, from designating physical locations to symbolizing importance and belonging.


See also: anyplace, displace, displacement, everyplace, misplace, misplacement, misplacing, placed, placeholders, placement, placements, places, placing, placings, replace, someplace.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #113, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.