suburbs

word · lemma: suburb

/ˈsəbɝbz/
/sˈʌbɜːbz/

Definition

Areas or neighborhoods located just outside the main city, where people often live and commute to the city for work or school.

Usage & Nuances

Usually used in plural ('the suburbs'). Common with verbs like 'live in', 'move to', 'commute from'. In the US, 'suburbs' often suggest middle-class, residential neighborhoods, different from 'downtown' or 'city center'. Sometimes confused with 'outskirts' (farther, less developed areas).

Example Sentences

Many families live in the suburbs and drive to the city for work.

basic

They moved from downtown to the suburbs last year.

basic

There are many parks in the suburbs for kids to play.

basic

I grew up in the suburbs, so city life feels a bit overwhelming to me.

natural

After having kids, they decided the suburbs would be better for their family.

natural

Lots of people choose the suburbs for more space and quieter neighborhoods.

natural