B2adjective5K

Rural

UK //ˈrʊə.rəl//US //ˈrʊr.əl//

Definition

Relating to the countryside rather than the town or city.

In simple words: Related to the countryside or farms, not cities.

Examples

  • The rural landscape was dotted with farms and fields.
  • She prefers living in a rural area away from city noise.
  • The rural community has a close-knit feel.
  • Many rural schools face funding challenges.
  • Rural tourism is becoming increasingly popular.
  • He enjoys rural activities like fishing and hiking.

Usage notes

Use 'rural' when referring to areas outside cities. It tends to be more formal when discussing geography or planning.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'rural' as 'rural roads' that go through the countryside.

Collocations

  • rural area
  • rural community
  • rural development

Synonyms

  • rustic
  • countryside
  • pastoral
  • agrarian
  • provincial

Antonyms

  • urban
  • metropolitan
  • city

Common mistakes

  • Confuse with 'urban' which refers to city areas.
  • Use it incorrectly to describe suburban areas.
  • Incorrectly use 'rural' to describe anything related to cities.