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.