What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
metropolis
Example
New York City is a famous metropolis in the United States. [metropolis: noun]
Example
The metropolis of Tokyo is known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions. [metropolis: noun]
megalopolis
Example
The Northeast megalopolis in the United States includes cities like Boston, New York, and Philadelphia. [megalopolis: noun]
Example
The Pearl River Delta megalopolis in China is one of the largest urban regions in the world. [megalopolis: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Metropolis is more commonly used than megalopolis in everyday language. Metropolis is a well-established term that has been used for centuries to describe important cities, while megalopolis is a more recent concept that is used mainly in academic or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between metropolis and megalopolis?
Both metropolis and megalopolis are formal words that are appropriate for academic, professional, or technical writing. However, metropolis is more versatile and can be used in various formality levels, while megalopolis is more specialized and may be less familiar to general audiences.