picture postcard

Học thuật
Thân thiện
picture postcard

A traveler sends a picture postcard from a sunny beach.

Definition

Noun: A picture postcard is a rectangular piece of thick paper or thin cardboard intended for writing and mailing without an envelope. Its defining feature is that one side bears a photograph, illustration, or other pictorial image, typically depicting a scenic view, landmark, or notable subject. The other side is usually divided into sections for a written message and the recipient's address.

Usage

The term "picture postcard" is used to specify this common type of postcard, distinguishing it from a plain or commercially printed postcard used for business or advertising. * She sent me a picture postcard of the Eiffel Tower from her trip to Paris. * The gift shop sells a wide selection of picture postcards featuring local landscapes. * Before social media, travelers would buy picture postcards as souvenirs to mail home.

Advanced Usage
  • As a Modifier: The term can be used adjectivally to describe something that is charmingly or idyllically scenic, resembling the idealized images found on such postcards.
    • We stayed in a picture-postcard village with thatched cottages and a small stream. (Note: Often hyphenated in this adjectival use.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Postcard (noun): The general term. A "picture postcard" is a specific type of postcard.
  • Greetings card / Greeting card (noun): A folded card, typically enclosed in an envelope, used for occasions like birthdays or holidays. This is a different item from a postcard.
Synonyms
  • Souvenir postcard
  • Scenic postcard
  • View card
Related Phrases
  • "Wish you were here": A classic, clichéd phrase often written on picture postcards sent from vacation destinations.
    • He wrote the usual "wish you were here" on the picture postcard from the beach.
picture postcard

A traveler sends a picture postcard from a sunny beach.

Noun
  1. a postcard with a picture on one side