What is rural? Pronunciation and usage in English

rural means . Learn how to pronounce and use rural through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of rural

ruraladjective

/ˈrʊərəl/
Definition & pronunciation of rural

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "rural." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ˈrʊərəl/ (This is using sounds from American English)

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  1. ˈrʊər - This part is the key!

    • r - Make a clear, rolled "r" sound. It's important to roll your tongue slightly.
    • ʊ - This is a short "oo" sound, like in the word "book."
    • ə - This is a schwa sound – a very weak, unstressed vowel sound. It's similar to the "a" in "about." It’s the most common vowel sound in English and often difficult for non-native speakers to master.

  2. əl - This is simply the sound "uhl," like the beginning of "umbrella."

Putting it together:

Imagine saying "roo-er-uhl." Focus on the rolled "r" and the short "oo" sound in the first syllable.

Here are a few resources that you can listen to for clarification:

Important Note: In British English, the pronunciation is slightly different: /ˈruːrəl/. The "r" is more of a regular "r" sound, not a rolled one.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Are you aiming for American or British English pronunciation?

Usage and examples with the word rural in English

Let's break down how to use the word "rural" in English. It's a versatile word with a specific meaning, but it can be incorporated into various sentences and contexts.

1. Core Meaning:

  • Rural describes areas or lifestyles that are away from cities and towns. It's characterized by:
    • Agriculture: Farming, livestock, and countryside activities are prominent.
    • Low Population Density: Fewer people per square mile.
    • Natural Landscapes: Fields, forests, mountains, and open spaces.
    • Traditional Ways of Life: Often associated with a slower pace and close-knit communities.

2. How to Use "Rural" – Examples & Contexts:

  • Describing Locations:

    • "We spent our summer vacation in a rural village in the Cotswolds." (Describes a location)
    • "The farmhouse offered stunning views of the rural landscape." (Describes scenery)
    • "He moved from a rural area to a bustling city." (Contrast – highlights the difference)
    • "The rural region of Scotland is known for its heather moorland." (Specific geographic area)

  • Describing Activities:

    • "She enjoys rural activities like hiking and fishing." (Highlights activities associated with rural areas)
    • "They run a rural tourism business, offering farm stays and horseback riding." (Details a type of business)

  • Describing People/Lifestyles:

    • “He grew up in a rural community and has a strong connection to the land.” (Describes a person’s background and values)
    • “Rural communities often have a strong sense of tradition.” (Describes a lifestyle or community characteristic)

  • In Comparisons:

    • “City life is very different from rural life.” (Highlights the contrast)
    • “While modern technology is reaching even the most rural areas, there's still a connection to simpler times.” (Acknowledges a change while still referencing the traditional aspect)

3. Synonyms (Words with Similar Meanings):

Using synonyms can help you vary your writing and avoid overusing "rural":

  • Country: (Often used interchangeably, but sometimes “country” is a little broader - referring to the countryside in general, not just areas far from cities)
  • Agricultural: (Focuses on the farming aspect)
  • Village-like or Town-like (Depending on the scale)
  • Pastoral: (Evokes a romantic image of peaceful, rural life)

4. Important Nuances:

  • Not always ‘primitive’: "Rural" doesn't automatically mean backward or unsophisticated. Many rural areas are technologically advanced and have thriving businesses.
  • Spectrum: There's a spectrum of rurality. Some areas are very isolated, while others have nearby towns and amenities.

5. Example Sentences Combining Multiple Aspects:

  • "The rural farmers market offered fresh produce and handmade crafts, showcasing the region’s agricultural heritage."
  • "Despite the increasing popularity of city living, many people are drawn to the peace and quiet of rural areas, seeking a more relaxed lifestyle.”

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to write about? (e.g., a travel blog, a story, an essay?)
  • In what context are you planning to use the word "rural"? (e.g., describing a place, comparing lifestyles, etc.)

Synonyms for the word rural

Practice with vocabulary rural

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The government's new initiative aims to improve internet connectivity in __________ communities, which often lack high-speed access.
  2. Many multinational corporations are now looking beyond major cities to establish new manufacturing plants in more __________ regions due to lower land costs and available labor.
  3. Despite its proximity to the capital, the village retains a distinctly __________ character, with traditional farming methods still prevalent.
  4. The study focused on the challenges faced by populations in __________ areas, specifically addressing issues of infrastructure and access to healthcare.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following best describes a "rural" setting? a) Densely populated urban centers b) Open countryside with low population density c) Areas dominated by large industrial complexes d) Regions primarily characterized by agriculture and natural landscapes

  2. In discussions about infrastructure development, "rural" areas often refer to regions that: a) Have a highly concentrated workforce. b) Are located far from major metropolitan centers. c) Rely heavily on advanced digital infrastructure. d) Exhibit characteristics of a countryside environment.

  3. A company looking to minimize operational costs by acquiring land for a new factory might prioritize locations in __________ areas. a) metropolitan b) urban c) rural d) densely populated

  4. Which term is most appropriate for describing a residential area characterized by single-family homes, typically located on the outskirts of a city, offering a balance between city amenities and a quieter lifestyle? a) metropolitan b) exurban c) suburban d) downtown

  5. When discussing traditional farming communities, which term emphasizes the economy and culture centered around agriculture? a) pastoral b) industrial c) agrarian d) modern

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The government needs to invest more in the areas outside the big cities to boost their economies. Rewrite using "rural" or related word forms:

  2. Original: People living in the less developed parts of the country often struggle with limited access to public services. Rewrite using "rural" or related word forms:

  3. Original: The new agricultural policies aim to support farmers who cultivate crops in isolated regions away from urban centers. Rewrite without "rural" but using a suitable replacement word:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. rural
  2. rural
  3. agrarian
  4. remote

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Open countryside with low population density, d) Regions primarily characterized by agriculture and natural landscapes
  2. b) Are located far from major metropolitan centers, d) Exhibit characteristics of a countryside environment
  3. c) rural
  4. c) suburban
  5. c) agrarian

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Rewrite: The government needs to invest more in rural areas to boost their economies.
  2. Rewrite: Residents of rural regions often face challenges due to limited access to public services.
  3. Rewrite: The new agricultural policies aim to support farmers cultivating crops in remote agricultural regions.

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