B2nounformal2K

Infrastructure

UK /["/ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/"]/

Definition

the basic systems and services that are necessary for a country or an organization to run smoothly, for example buildings, transport and water and power supplies

In simple words: The basic systems and structures that a country or organization needs to function.

Examples

  • The city's aging infrastructure needs significant investment.
  • Strong infrastructure is crucial for economic growth.
  • Governments are responsible for maintaining public infrastructure.
  • In rural areas, infrastructure can be very limited.

Usage notes

Use 'infrastructure' in formal contexts, especially in discussions about economics, development, and public services. It's less common in everyday conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'infrastructure' as the 'in-structure' of a building, the foundation that holds everything up.

Collocations

  • public infrastructure
  • transport infrastructure
  • critical infrastructure
  • infrastructure development

Synonyms

  • framework
  • system
  • foundation
  • networks
  • facilities

Antonyms

  • chaos
  • disorder

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'superstructure' which refers to structures built on top of an infrastructure.
  • Using it in informal settings where simpler terms like 'system' may be more appropriate.