Word
sidewalk
Phoneticsside·walk, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈsaɪdˌwɔk/
UK/sˈaɪdwɔːk/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a hard path for people to walk on, usually at the side of a street.
n. a paved footpath located at the side of a road for pedestrian use.
Examples
“Please walk on the sidewalk so you stay safe from the cars.”
“The city workers are repairing the cracked sidewalk to prevent people from tripping while they walk to work.”
“Urban planners often prioritise wide sidewalks to encourage foot traffic and create a more vibrant, accessible atmosphere for local businesses and residents alike.”
Examples
simple
“Please walk on the sidewalk so you stay safe from the cars.”
contextual
“The city workers are repairing the cracked sidewalk to prevent people from tripping while they walk to work.”
complex
“Urban planners often prioritise wide sidewalks to encourage foot traffic and create a more vibrant, accessible atmosphere for local businesses and residents alike.”
Usage
In British English, this is called a 'pavement'.
Teaching tip
This is a high-frequency word in American English; learners should be aware that 'pavement' in the US often refers to the road surface itself.
Pitfall
I walked on the pavement in New York.
I walked on the sidewalk in New York.
In American English, use 'sidewalk'. In British English, 'pavement' is the standard term for this path.
Etymology
From side + walk.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Synonyms
Idioms
- 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.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL 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: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- A2 · Elementary
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/sidewalk