precinct

word

/ˈpɹiˌsɪŋk/
PREE-singk
/pɹˈiːsɪŋkt/
PREE-singkt

Definition

A precinct is a specific area or district within a larger place, often created for voting, police work, or administration. It can also mean the grounds or enclosed area around a building or institution.

Usage & Nuances

Most commonly seen in US English in phrases like 'voting precinct' and 'police precinct'. It is more formal than everyday words like 'area' or 'neighborhood', and the exact meaning depends strongly on context.

Example Sentences

Only staff can enter the secure precinct behind the main building.

natural

I vote at the precinct near my school.

basic

The officer works in the downtown precinct.

basic

No cars are allowed inside the temple precinct.

basic

Turnout was surprisingly high in our precinct this year.

natural

She spent most of the night at the 12th precinct filing reports.

natural