ENGLISH
REFERENCE

boroughs

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈbɝˌoʊz// UK //bˈʌɹəz// bor·oughs

n. the different sections or districts that make up a large city. Each area usually has its own local government to handle things like schools and trash collection.

n. administrative divisions or districts of a large city, typically possessing some degree of local government or autonomy. Often used to describe the five major sections of New York City or the administrative units of London.


SIMPLE

New York City is made up of five boroughs.

CONTEXTUAL

The city council voted to increase funding for public parks across all eight boroughs to improve local recreation.

COMPLEX

While the central business district attracts the most tourists, the outer boroughs offer a more authentic glimpse into the diverse cultural fabric of the metropolitan area.

Synonyms
Usage

Usually plural when referring to the collective parts of a city; takes a plural verb.

© 2026 English Reference