What are Outskirts and Suburbs? Distinguishing Outskirts and Suburbs

Outskirts and Suburbs both refer to areas on the outskirts of a city, but each term is used in different contexts. In the article below, PREP will share the concepts, usage, and detailed distinctions between Outskirts and Suburbs, so let’s take a look!

I. What are Outskirts?

Before distinguishing between Outskirts and Suburbs, let’s explore the concept of Outskirts!

Outskirts is pronounced /ˈaʊt.skɪrts/ and functions as a noun. The Outskirts meaning is: (of cities and towns) the areas that form the edge. For example:

• They live on the outskirts of Miami. 

• The factory is in the outskirts of New Delhi. 

• The village is located on the outskirts of the city.

II. What are the Suburbs?

To accurately distinguish between Outskirts and Suburbs, let’s explore the concept and collocations with Suburbs below!

1. Definition

"Suburb" is pronounced /ˈsʌb.ɝːb/ and functions as a noun, meaning: an area on the edge of a large town or city where people who work in the town or city often live.  For example: 

• Most of the people who live in the suburbs work in the city. 

• They live in a suburb of London. 

2. Collocation with Suburbs

III. Difference between Outskirts and Suburbs

Let’s distinguish the difference between Outskirts and Suburbs in English below!

IV. Exercises to distinguish Outskirts and Suburbs

To better understand the usage and accurately distinguish between Outskirts and Suburbs, let’s complete the exercises below with PREP!

1. Exercise: Fill in the blanks with Suburbs or Outskirts in the appropriate places.

1. Many families prefer living in the __________ because it's quieter and safer than the city center.

2. The new shopping mall was built on the __________ of the town, where there was plenty of space.

3. They moved to the __________ after they had children, looking for a more family-friendly environment.

4. The factory is located on the __________, far from residential areas.

5. Public transport in the __________ is well-developed, making it easy to commute to the city.

6. The __________ of the city are mostly undeveloped, with large areas of open land.

7. The __________ have many parks and schools, making them attractive for young families.

8. The airport is situated on the __________, about 30 kilometers from downtown.

9. New housing developments are rapidly expanding into the __________ of the city.

10. The __________ offer a combination of suburban comfort and easy access to urban amenities.

11. Many families prefer to live in the __________ because they want more space and access to parks.

12. The city’s __________ are known for being less developed and more industrial.

13. New shopping centers and schools are being built in the __________ to accommodate the growing population.

14. The __________ of the city are often quieter than the bustling center.

15. Living in the __________ can mean a longer commute to work, but it often provides a more peaceful environment.

16. The factory is located on the __________ of the city, far from residential areas.

17. Many families prefer living in the __________ because it offers a quieter environment but still close to the city center.

18. The new shopping mall was built on the __________ of town where the land was cheaper.

19. The __________ are known for having parks, schools, and community centers for families.

20. We had to drive through the __________ of the city before reaching the open countryside.

2. Answer

Above, PREP has shared detailed concepts, usage, and distinctions between Outskirts and Suburbs. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment, and PREP will respond as soon as possible!