county

word

/ˈkaʊni/
KOWN-ee
/kˈaʊnti/
KOWN-tee

Definition

A county is an administrative area within a state or country. In some places, it has its own local government and is used to organize services, courts, or records.

Usage & Nuances

Most common in the US and UK, but the exact role of a 'county' differs by country. In the US, learners often see collocations like 'county jail', 'county fair', 'county clerk', and 'county line'. Do not confuse it with 'country'.

Example Sentences

This county has three small towns.

basic

She works at the county hospital.

basic

We pay taxes to the county every year.

basic

The storm warning covers the whole county, so schools are closing early.

natural

He was elected to the county board last year.

natural

Once you cross the county line, the speed limit changes.

natural