freeway
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A broad highway designed for high-speed traffic: A major public road, typically with multiple lanes in each direction, limited access via on-ramps and off-ramps, and no traffic signals or intersections, allowing for continuous, high-speed travel over long distances.
Usage
The word "freeway" is a countable noun. It refers to the physical road infrastructure itself. It is often used with articles ("a," "the") and prepositions like "on," "onto," and "off." * Example: "We took the freeway to get to the city quickly." * Example: "There was an accident on the freeway causing a major traffic jam." * Example: "The next freeway exit is for the airport."
Advanced Usage
- "Freeway" vs. "Highway": In American English, "freeway" (or "expressway") specifically implies a controlled-access highway with no tolls (hence "free"). A general "highway" may have intersections and traffic lights. In some regions, the terms are used interchangeably.
- "Freeway" as a Modifier: It can be used attributively (like an adjective) to describe related things.
- Example: "freeway traffic," "freeway construction," "freeway system."
Variants and Related Words
- Expressway (n.): A high-speed highway with controlled access; very similar in meaning to "freeway" and often used interchangeably.
- Motorway (n.): The British English term equivalent to "freeway" or "expressway."
- Interstate (n.): In the U.S., a specific network of freeways that connect states.
- Thruway / Turnpike (n.): Terms often used for toll roads that are built to freeway standards.
Synonyms
- Expressway
- Superhighway
- Motorway (UK)
Related Phrases
- Freeway overpass: A bridge that carries one road over the freeway.
- Freeway interchange: A complex junction where two or more freeways meet, often using cloverleaf or stack designs.
- Freeway lane: One of the parallel strips on the freeway for a single line of vehicles.
- Freeway entrance/on-ramp: The short road that leads from a surface street onto the freeway.
- Freeway exit/off-ramp: The short road that leads from the freeway off to a surface street.
Noun
- a broad highway designed for high-speed traffic