C1noun3K

Residence

UK /["/ˈrezɪdəns/"]/US /["/ˈrezɪdəns/"]/

Definition

a house, especially a large or impressive one

In simple words: A place where someone lives.

Examples

  • They recently moved into a new residence near the beach.
  • His permanent residence is registered in the downtown area.
  • The university provides residence halls for its students.
  • She applied for residence status to legally live and work in the country.
  • During his residence as ambassador, he focused on strengthening diplomatic ties.

Usage notes

Used in formal contexts, such as legal documents or discussions about property. Less common in casual conversation; 'home' or 'house' might be preferred in those settings.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'reside' — when you reside somewhere, that's your residence.

Collocations

  • desirable
  • palatial
  • official
  • build
  • maintain
  • change
  • long
  • permanent
  • temporary
  • establish
  • take up
  • permit
  • hall
  • in residence
  • a change of residence
  • somebody’s city of residence
  • somebody’s country of residence
  • long
  • permanent
  • temporary
  • establish
  • take up
  • permit
  • hall
  • in residence
  • a change of residence
  • somebody’s city of residence
  • somebody’s country of residence

Synonyms

  • dwelling
  • home
  • habitation
  • abode
  • quarters

Antonyms

  • transience
  • temporary lodging

Common mistakes

  • Using 'residence' incorrectly as a verb
  • Confusing it with 'residential', which describes areas not specific to an individual's home
  • Overusing in casual speech when simpler words would fit better