Suburban: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to areas on the outskirts of a city where people live, typically characterized by residential neighborhoods. Commonly used when talking about areas that are less crowded and more spacious than the city center.

• They moved to a suburban area to have more space for their children.
• The suburban life offers a quieter and less hectic lifestyle.

Pertains to areas or places where people live. This term focuses more on housing and living spaces, rather than commercial or industrial use.

• The new residential complex offers modern amenities and a park.
• This is a residential neighborhood, so there are many houses but few shops.

Describes a person who travels a distance from their home, usually located in the suburbs or outskirts, to their place of work in the city. Often used when discussing daily travel to and from work.

• As a commuter, she spends two hours each day traveling to and from the office.
• The city has developed a new rail line to accommodate the rising number of commuters.

Used to describe areas that are distant from the center of a city or town. These areas are generally on the periphery and can be residential, but often suggest being more remote or less developed.

• They built a new shopping mall in the outlying regions of the city.
• Many of the outlying villages still retain their rural charm.

Used to describe areas, features, or lifestyles associated with the outskirts of a city.

• They live in a suburban neighborhood, which is quieter and less crowded than the city.
• Suburban schools often have larger playgrounds than city schools.

More formal and descriptive term for a person who lives in a suburb, often used in demographic or sociological contexts.

• The new study shows that suburb dwellers are increasingly concerned about environmental issues.
• As a suburb dweller, she enjoys the space and tranquility her neighborhood offers.

Casual term for someone who lives in a suburb, often used in informal discussions. It can occasionally carry a slightly negative connotation implying conformity or blandness.

• The suburbanites commute to the city every day for work.
• Even though he's a suburbanite, he loves the vibrant nightlife of the city.