B2adverb2K

Downtown

UK /["/ˌdaʊnˈtaʊn/"]/US /["/ˌdaʊnˈtaʊn/"]/

Definition

in or towards the centre of a city, especially its main business area

In simple words: The center part of a city where people shop and work.

Examples

  • to go/work downtown

Usage notes

Use 'downtown' when referring to the main business or commercial area of a city. It is generally used in most contexts but might be less appropriate in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'down' as the heart of the city — where everything happens.

Collocations

  • downtown area
  • downtown shopping
  • downtown restaurant

Synonyms

  • city center
  • urban area
  • central business district

Antonyms

  • uptown
  • suburb

Common mistakes

  • Using 'downtown' as a verb.
  • Confusing with 'uptown' which refers to a different area.
  • Incorrectly spelling it as 'down town'.