ENGLISH
REFERENCE

vacant

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈveɪkənt// UK //vˈeɪkənt// va·cant Archaic

adj. empty and available for someone to use. You often see this word on signs for hotel rooms or empty seats.

adj. not occupied or filled by a person, object, or activity. Often describes property, positions of employment, or physical spaces that are currently available.


SIMPLE

The hotel has several vacant rooms tonight.

CONTEXTUAL

The company is looking for a new manager to fill the vacant position in the sales department.

COMPLEX

The city council is considering a new tax on vacant properties to encourage owners to rent them out to local residents.

Origin

From Old French vacant, from Latin vacāns.

Usage

Commonly modifies nouns like 'seat', 'room', 'lot', or 'position'.

Pitfall

the room is empty of peoplethe room is vacantWhile 'empty' is general, 'vacant' specifically implies that a space is available for rent or use.

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