English Reference

Word

upstate

Phoneticsup·state, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈəpˈsteɪt/

UK/ʌpstˈeɪt/

Adverb of place

Definition

adv. towards or in the northern part of a state. People usually use this to talk about the parts of New York that are far from the city.

adv. towards or in the northern or more rural part of a state, particularly in reference to New York. Often used to distinguish a region from a major coastal or southern metropolitan area.

Examples

“We are driving upstate for the weekend.”

“Many families move upstate to find more affordable housing and larger gardens away from the city center.”

“While the city remains the economic engine of the region, many residents prefer to commute from upstate, trading a longer travel time for a quieter, more scenic lifestyle.”

Examples

simple

“We are driving upstate for the weekend.”

contextual

“Many families move upstate to find more affordable housing and larger gardens away from the city center.”

complex

“While the city remains the economic engine of the region, many residents prefer to commute from upstate, trading a longer travel time for a quieter, more scenic lifestyle.”

Usage

Typically follows the verb of motion or the main verb; can also function as an adjective preceding a noun.

Real-World Examples

“In 2024, Vogel moved with her husband and daughter to upstate New York to be closer to her parents.”
Smithsonian Magazine 31 Aug 2026

Etymology

From up + state.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

ADVERB

upstate(B2)

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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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