What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
neighbourhood
Example
I grew up in a friendly neighbourhood with lots of kids my age. [neighbourhood: noun]
Example
We are having a neighbourhood block party this weekend. [neighbourhood: adjective]
vicinity
Example
There are several restaurants in the vicinity of the hotel. [vicinity: noun]
Example
Please keep your belongings close in the vicinity of the train station. [vicinity: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Neighbourhood is more commonly used in everyday language than vicinity, especially in the context of residential areas or communities. However, vicinity is more versatile and can be used in various contexts beyond describing a neighbourhood.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between neighbourhood and vicinity?
Both neighbourhood and vicinity are relatively neutral in terms of formality, although vicinity may be slightly more formal due to its Latin origin.
