English Reference

Word

amenities

Phoneticsameni·ties

US/əˈmɛnətiz/

UK/ɐmˈɛnɪtiz/

Definitions

01useful facilities

B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun

n. useful features or services like shops, parks, or gyms that make a place better to live in.

n. facilities or services that contribute to the comfort, convenience, or enjoyment of a location. Usually plural.

“The new apartment building has great amenities, including a rooftop garden and a gym.”

“Urban planners are focusing on improving local amenities to ensure that residents have access to essential services within walking distance of their homes.”

Usage

Almost always used in the plural form.

Synonyms

facilitiesservicesconveniences

02pleasantness

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Formal

n. the quality of being pleasant or agreeable in a place or in someone's behavior.

n. the quality of being pleasant or attractive, particularly regarding a climate, a location, or social manners.

“We enjoyed the amenities of the local climate during our summer holiday.”

“The diplomat was known for his social amenities, always ensuring that every guest felt welcomed and respected at formal functions.”

Teaching tip

In modern English, this abstract sense is much less common than the sense referring to physical facilities.

Synonyms

pleasantnessagreeablenesscourtesy

Antonyms

unpleasantness

Real-World Examples

“Private companies under contract to the National Park Service have long provided needed amenities such as lodging and food within the national parks.”
The Conversation 2 Sept 2026
“Eastbourne has a fascinating history with one of life's most basic amenities: the toilet.”
BBC News 23 Aug 2026

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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