What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
urbs
Example
The urbs of Rome was once the center of the Roman Empire. [urbs: noun]
Example
The urbs is a place of diversity and opportunity. [urbs: noun]
city
Example
New York City is known for its skyscrapers and bustling streets. [city: noun]
Example
The city council passed a new law to improve public transportation. [city: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
City is much more commonly used than urbs in everyday language. City is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while urbs is a more specialized term that is used less frequently.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between urbs and city?
While urbs can be more formal or literary, city is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.