What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
city
Example
New York City is known for its iconic skyline and bustling streets. [city: noun]
Example
She loves the energy and excitement of living in the city. [city: adjective]
downtown
Example
Let's meet at the coffee shop downtown after work. [downtown: adverb]
Example
The downtown area is always busy with people shopping and dining. [downtown: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
City is a more commonly used term in everyday language as it is a broader and more versatile term that covers a wide range of urban areas. On the other hand, downtown is a more specific term that is commonly used when referring to the central business district of a city.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between city and downtown?
Both city and downtown can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, city is generally considered a more neutral and formal term, while downtown has a slightly more casual and colloquial connotation.
