C1adjective5K

Suburban

UK /["/səˈbɜːbən/"]/US /["/səˈbɜːrbən/"]/

Definition

in or connected with a suburb

In simple words: Relating to areas outside a city, often residential.

Examples

  • suburban areas
  • a suburban street
  • life in suburban London
  • a suburban lifestyle

Usage notes

Use 'suburban' when describing communities or lifestyles outside a city, often suggesting quieter, family-friendly areas. Avoid using it for urban or very rural contexts.

Grammar pattern

suburban + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'suburb' as 'sub' (less) + 'urban' (city) – a place that's less city-like.

Collocations

  • suburban area
  • suburban lifestyle
  • suburban home
  • suburban sprawl

Synonyms

  • residential
  • commuter
  • outskirt

Antonyms

  • urban
  • metropolitan
  • city

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'suburban' with 'urban', which means city-related.
  • Using 'suburban' to describe countryside areas, which usually are rural.