B1noun1K

Yard

UK /["/jɑːd/"]/US /["/jɑːrd/"]/

Definition

a piece of land next to or around your house where you can grow flowers, fruit, vegetables, etc., usually with a lawn (= an area of grass)

In simple words: An area of land, usually next to a house, often covered in grass.

Examples

  • The children played in the yard while their parents relaxed on the porch.
  • She had a beautiful garden in her yard filled with colorful flowers.
  • He measured the length of the rope in yards to know how much he had.
  • A football field is typically 100 yards long.
  • The dog barked as it chased a squirrel across the yard.

Usage notes

Commonly used in both American and British English. In American English, 'yard' often refers to the area around a house, while in British English, it can refer to an outdoor space like a garden. Avoid using in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'yard' like a yardstick measuring your home's outdoor space.

Collocations

  • back
  • front
  • side
  • mow
  • rake
  • water
  • sale
  • sign
  • in yard
  • the corner of the yard
  • the edge of the yard
  • the middle of the yard
  • front
  • back
  • rear
  • enter
  • leave
  • enclose
  • lumber
  • timber
  • freight
  • a builder’s yard
  • the knacker’s yard

Synonyms

  • garden
  • lawn
  • yardage
  • outdoor space

Antonyms

  • building
  • indoor

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'gardens' which can imply cultivated plants.
  • Using 'yard' in contexts where 'field' might be more appropriate.
  • Mispronouncing 'yard' as 'yeard'.