downtown
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈdaʊnˌtaʊn/
KK: /ˈdaʊnˌtaʊn/
adjective
Definition
Referring to the central area of a city, often where businesses and shops are located.
Example
The downtown area is bustling with activity and shops.
Conversation
Have you checked out the new café in the downtown area yet?
Not yet! I've heard it's really nice.
I went yesterday, and it has such a great vibe for a downtown spot.
Sounds awesome! We should go together sometime.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
urban
metropolitan
central
Antonyms
rural
suburban
remote
adverb
Definition
In or toward the central area of a city, often where the main businesses and shops are located.
Example
We decided to go downtown to visit the new art gallery.
Conversation
Are you planning to head downtown this weekend?
Yeah, I want to check out that new café everyone is talking about.
That sounds fun! I love exploring downtown areas.
noun
Definition
The central area of a city where most businesses, shops, and offices are located.
Example
We went to downtown to enjoy the shops and restaurants.
Conversation
Have you been to the new café in downtown?
No, I haven't! Is it good?
Yeah, it's really nice and has a great vibe for hanging out.
Root Explanation
Downtown is formed from "down" (from Old English "dūn", meaning hill or mound) and "town" (from Old English "tūn", meaning enclosure or settlement). The term "downtown" refers to the lower part of a town or city, often the central business district.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'hill' ('down') and an 'enclosure' ('town') to remember that 'downtown' refers to the central area of a city, often at a lower elevation.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.