01
urban
Relating to the city or city life; urban, metropolitan.
example
Der Architekt ist bekannt für seine modernen, urbanen Bauprojekte.
The architect is known for his modern, urban construction projects.
urban
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Meanings
Usage tips
Register and style
'Urban' (urban) is a rather formal and international term from Latin. You often find it in texts about architecture, sociology, culture, or urban planning.
EXAMPLE
Die Studie analysiert die Entwicklung urbaner Zentren in Europa.
The study analyzes the development of urban centers in Europe.
Typical collocations
Common combinations with 'urban' (urban) refer to aspects of city life. These include 'urbaner Raum' (urban space), 'urbanes Leben' (urban life), 'urbane Kultur' (urban culture), and 'urbaner Lebensstil' (urban lifestyle).
EXAMPLE
Viele junge Menschen bevorzugen einen urbanen Lebensstil.
Many young people prefer an urban lifestyle.
Word family
The adjective 'urban' (urban) belongs to a word family that describes the concept of 'Stadt' (city). The related noun is 'die Urbanität' (urbanity), which means something like 'Städtischkeit' (urban character) or 'städtisches Flair' (urban flair).
EXAMPLE
Die hohe Urbanität der Metropole fasziniert mich.
The high level of urbanity of the metropolis fascinates me.
Compare with
urban vs städtisch
municipal / urban
'städtisch' and 'urban' can both describe something connected with a city or with life in the city. However, 'städtisch' is broader: it can also mean that something belongs to the city administration, for example 'ein städtischer Kindergarten' (a municipal kindergarten). 'urban' more often describes the style or character of a city, often modern or metropolitan. Learners may confuse the words because 'urban' often seems like 'städtisch'. When it is about administration or ownership by the city, 'städtisch' fits better. When it is about lifestyle, architecture, or atmosphere, 'urban' sounds more natural.
urban
Das neue Viertel wirkt mit seinen Cafés und kleinen Läden sehr urban.
With its cafés and small shops, the new neighborhood feels very urban.
städtisch
Die städtische Bibliothek bleibt heute bis acht Uhr geöffnet.
The municipal library will stay open until eight o'clock today.
In real life
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