Word
freeway
Phoneticsfree·way, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈfɹiˌweɪ/
UK/fɹˈiːweɪ/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a wide road designed for fast travel over long distances, with no traffic lights or stop signs.
n. a divided highway with controlled access, designed for high-speed motor traffic with no level crossings.
Examples
“We took the freeway to avoid the traffic in the city center.”
“The new freeway significantly reduced the commute time between the suburbs and the downtown business district.”
“Urban planners argue that expanding the freeway only encourages more driving, a phenomenon known as induced demand that eventually leads back to the same levels of congestion.”
Examples
simple
“We took the freeway to avoid the traffic in the city center.”
contextual
“The new freeway significantly reduced the commute time between the suburbs and the downtown business district.”
complex
“Urban planners argue that expanding the freeway only encourages more driving, a phenomenon known as induced demand that eventually leads back to the same levels of congestion.”
Usage
Commonly used in the Western United States; 'motorway' is the equivalent in British English.
Teaching tip
While 'highway' is a general term for any main road, 'freeway' specifically implies a road with no intersections or tolls in many regions.
Etymology
From free + way.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- 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.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL 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: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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