# rural

/ˈɹʊɹəɫ/ (US) · /ɹˈɔːɹəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rural
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. countryside

adjective · CEFR B2

relating to the countryside rather than the city.

For teachers: relating to, characteristic of, or living in the country or agriculture as opposed to urban areas.

- They decided to move to a rural area to enjoy the quiet life.
- The government is investing in rural infrastructure to ensure that farming communities have reliable access to high-speed internet and modern healthcare.

Usage: Usually placed before the noun it describes.

Teaching tip: Learners often confuse 'rural' with 'rustic'. While 'rural' is a neutral geographical term, 'rustic' often implies a simple, rough, or charming style.

## Examples

- They live in a quiet rural area.
- The government is investing in better internet access for rural communities to help local farmers sell their goods online.
- While urban centers offer immediate access to diverse amenities, rural life often provides a sense of tranquility and a closer connection to the natural cycles of the seasons.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.