local
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for local, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Belonging to or existing in a particular, nearby area.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use local
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Late Latin locālis, "belonging to a place", ultimately from Latin locus, "a place".
Full origin of local →Frequently asked questions
What does “local” mean?
The word “local” means belonging to or existing in a particular, nearby area. In plain terms, relating to a particular, nearby place, or restricted to just one part of something.
How do you pronounce “local”?
“Local” is pronounced LOH-kl (/ˈloʊ.kl̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “local” in a sentence?
Here is “local” used in a sentence: “She shops at the local farmers' market every Saturday.”
What part of speech is “local”?
“Local” is an adjective.
Where does the word “local” come from?
The word “local” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin locālis, "belonging to a place", ultimately from Latin locus, "a place".
Is “local” a common word?
“Local” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “local” have?
“Local” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: belonging to or existing in a particular, nearby area.
What is the difference between "local" and "regional"?
Both describe things tied to a place, but the scale differs. "Local" points to a small, nearby area, such as your town or neighbourhood. "Regional" covers a much larger zone, such as a county or a whole part of a country. A local shop serves a few streets; a regional chain spans many towns.
What is the opposite of "local"?
It depends on the contrast you mean. Against distance, the opposite is "national," "international," or "global," which reach far beyond the nearby area. Against origin, the opposite is "foreign" or "imported." A "local" newspaper contrasts with a "national" one; "local" produce contrasts with "imported" produce.
What is an example of "local"?
"The local bakery" is the one in your own neighbourhood. "Local news" covers events in your town, not the wider world. "Local residents," "local time," and "a local team" all point to something belonging to a particular nearby area rather than a distant or wider one.