B1noun1K

Currency

UK /["/ˈkʌrənsi/"]/US /["/ˈkɜːrənsi/"]/

Definition

the system of money that a country uses

In simple words: Money used in a country.

Examples

  • The currency in Japan is the yen.
  • During the crisis, the value of the local currency dropped significantly.
  • He exchanged his dollars for the local currency at the bank.
  • Cryptocurrency is becoming a popular alternative to traditional currency.

Usage notes

Use 'currency' when discussing money in general or in financial contexts. It's appropriate in both written and spoken forms, but may sound formal in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'current' money - currency is the money currently in use.

Collocations

  • domestic
  • foreign
  • common
  • change
  • convert something into
  • convert something to
  • rise
  • depreciate
  • fall
  • conversion
  • exchange
  • translation
  • in…currency
  • common
  • general
  • wide
  • enjoy
  • have
  • gain

Synonyms

  • money
  • cash
  • funds
  • capital
  • wealth

Antonyms

  • debt
  • deficit

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'currencies' - forgetting 'currency' can be singular or plural.
  • Incorrect articles - using 'a currency' instead of 'currency' when speaking generally.