C1noun5K

Acre

UK /["/ˈeɪkə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈeɪkər/"]/

Definition

a unit for measuring an area of land; 4 840 square yards or about 4 050 square metres

In simple words: A unit of area equal to 43,560 square feet.

Examples

  • 3 000 acres of parkland
  • a three-acre wood
  • Each house has acres of space around it *(= a lot of space)*.

Usage notes

Commonly used in American English when discussing land and real estate. It is less common in casual conversation. Avoid using it in contexts where other area measurements are more appropriate, like small rooms.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Imagine a large field, 43,560 steps long, to help visualize an acre.

Collocations

  • large acre
  • sell an acre
  • buy an acre

Synonyms

  • hectare
  • parcel
  • plot

Antonyms

  • square foot
  • square meter
  • hectare

Common mistakes

  • Confusing acre with 'acres' - remember, it's often used as a singular unit.
  • Using acre in contexts outside land measurement, where different terms apply.