English Reference

Word

tour

US/ˈtʊɹ/

UK/tˈɔː/

Definitions

01a journey to several places

A2 · Elementary Countable noun

n. a trip where you visit many different towns, cities, or countries.

n. a journey through a series of places, often for pleasure or to perform a specific task.

“We went on a ten-day tour of Italy, visiting Rome, Florence, and Venice.”

“The delegation embarked on a three-week tour of Southeast Asia to strengthen diplomatic ties and explore new trade opportunities.”

02a guided visit

A2 · Elementary Countable noun

n. a short visit to a building or place where someone shows you around.

n. a guided visit to a particular site, building, or institution to learn about its history or function.

“The museum offers a free guided tour every hour.”

“The factory tour provided a fascinating insight into the automated assembly process and the company's quality control measures.”

Synonyms

visitwalkthrough

03performances or matches

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun Sports

n. a series of concerts or sports matches played in different places.

n. a series of professional engagements, such as concerts or sporting events, undertaken by a performer or team in different locations.

“The band is going on a world tour to promote their new album.”

“The national cricket team's winter tour of the West Indies was cut short due to unforeseen logistical complications.”

Synonyms

04military service

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Law Formal

n. a period of time spent serving in the military in a specific place.

n. a period of duty or service in a particular location or assignment, typically in a military context.

“He returned home last week after completing a six-month tour in the desert.”

“The sergeant was commended for his exceptional leadership during his third tour of duty in the region.”

Usage

Often used in the phrase 'tour of duty'.

05to travel around

B1 · Intermediate

v. to travel around a place to see it or to perform.

v. to travel through a region or area, either for pleasure or for professional purposes.

“The theater company will tour the country throughout the summer.”

“The researchers spent the autumn touring various remote villages to collect data on local dialects and oral traditions.”

Word family

Related words

Idioms

Domains

MilitarySports

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.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
Very common
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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English Reference