a community center

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a community center" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a public building or space that provides various services and activities for community members. Example: "The city is planning to build a new community center to offer recreational programs and support services for local residents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Independent bookstores are like a community center.

The New Yorker

— LeBron James "It's a community center.

The New Yorker

It was a community center of sorts.

The New York Times

Or a community center.

The New York Times

"Charas is a community center".

The New York Times

—Rudy Giuliani "It's a community center.

The New Yorker

"State has become a community center.

The New York Times

"The people in Oakland wanted to create a community center".

The New York Times

Now they wanted a community center and a larger school.

The New York Times

The school doubles as a community center now.

The New York Times

"They feel their role deeply as a community center.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about community centers, specify the types of services or activities offered to provide a clearer picture of its role. For example, mention if it offers after-school programs, senior services, or recreational facilities.

Common error

Avoid assuming every reader understands the specific function of "a community center" in your context. Clearly state its purpose and available resources to prevent misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a community center" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying a specific type of public facility. Ludwig examples show it referring to a place that offers various services and activities to the community. It can act as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a community center" is a common noun phrase used to describe a public facility that provides services and activities for local residents. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, as supported by numerous examples from reputable sources like The New York Times and The New Yorker. Its function is primarily to identify and describe such facilities, serving a neutral communicative purpose. When using this phrase, consider specifying the types of services offered to enhance clarity, and avoid overgeneralizing its role to ensure readers understand its specific function in your context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a neighborhood center

Replaces 'community' with 'neighborhood', focusing on a smaller geographical area.

a public center

Substitutes 'community' with 'public', highlighting the center's accessibility to all.

a hub for the community

Uses 'hub' to describe the center's central role in community activities.

a recreation center

Emphasizes the recreational activities offered at the center.

a focal point for the community

Highlights the center as a key point of activity and interest for the community.

a social center

Highlights the center's role in fostering social interaction.

a civic center

Focuses on the center's role in civic activities and community governance.

a meeting place

Describes the center's function as a venue for gatherings.

a gathering place

Similar to 'meeting place', but emphasizes informal social interactions.

a common space

Describes the center as a shared area for community members.

FAQs

What is the purpose of "a community center"?

A "community center" typically serves as a public space providing various services and activities for local residents, such as recreational programs, educational workshops, and social support.

What can I say instead of "a community center"?

You can use alternatives like "a neighborhood center", "a public center", or "a civic center" depending on the context.

What activities are commonly offered at "a community center"?

Common activities include sports and fitness programs, arts and crafts classes, computer training, senior services, and youth programs. The specific offerings vary depending on the center's resources and the needs of the community it serves.

How does "a community center" benefit a local area?

A "community center" can improve residents' quality of life, foster social connections, offer resources and support and promote community engagement.