Population
UK //ˈpɒpjʊleɪʃən//US //ˈpɑːpjʊˌleɪʃən//
Definition
The total number of people living in a specific area.
In simple words: The number of people living in a place.
Examples
- The population of the city has increased dramatically in the last decade.
- The country has a large population compared to others in the region.
- Researchers are studying the population growth in urban areas.
- The world population is expected to reach 9 billion by 2050.
- Some areas face challenges due to a high density of population.
Usage notes
Use 'population' in discussions about demographics, statistics, or social issues. It's appropriate in formal and informal contexts.
Grammar pattern
countable + noun
Memory hint
Think of a 'pop' in a balloon as people living in a 'nation'.
Collocations
- increase in population
- population density
- aging population
- population growth
Synonyms
- inhabitants
- citizens
- residents
- community
- society
Antonyms
- depopulation
- decline
Common mistakes
- Incorrectly using 'populations' for a singular term.
- Confusing 'population' with 'populace' which can have slight differences in meaning.