local

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "local" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is related to a specific area or community, often in contrast to something that is national or global. Example: "The local bakery is known for its fresh bread and pastries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Strong community-based leadership at a local level is needed".

The Guardian

This is an essential seminar for managers and leaders looking for a practical definition of big society and how it will work within local government.

The Guardian

Join us now for more comment, analysis and the latest job opportunities in local government.

The Guardian

As well as a keynote speech from the government's adviser on big society, Lord Wei, delegates will also hear first hand accounts of how other local government managers are implementing big society in their councils and the best practice they have developed.

The Guardian

He pointed out that having founded the FN and "led it during a period of 40 years of constant adversity" he considered himself a good "locomotive" to head the local regional election campaign.

The Guardian

(It may have banged another nail into the coffin of elected local authorities with its suggestion that electoral officials need closer central supervision and more uniform standards).

The Guardian

The city would control Whitehall's local £500m apprenticeship budget and its £200m housing budget.

The Guardian

But never before in England had Whitehall been asked to surrender so much control over a local public sector, not even in London.

The Guardian

Fiercest opposition came from Patrick McLoughlin's Department for Transport, which flatly opposed Manchester's desire to regulate local bus companies.

The Guardian

He got cheers when he suggested reporters at least dine in local restaurants to help the area.

The Guardian

These are the ideal source of data, but there are several limitations with the data at this local level.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the connection to a specific community or region, use "local" to highlight the importance of place and belonging.

Common error

Avoid using "local" when a more specific term like "regional" or "community-based" would provide greater clarity and precision.

Linguistic Context

The word "local" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to specify that something is related to a particular area or community. Ludwig AI shows it's often used to describe businesses, events, or characteristics specific to a place.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Travel

20%

Lifestyle

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "local" is a versatile adjective widely used to denote a connection to a particular geographic area or community. Ludwig AI validates that "local" is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news, travel, and lifestyle content. While "regional" or "community-based" can serve as alternatives, "local" effectively emphasizes proximity and belonging. Usage tips include leveraging "local" to highlight community connections and avoiding overuse in favor of more precise terms when appropriate. Overall, "local" remains a valuable term for expressing regional relevance and identity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regional

Focuses on a broader geographical area than "local", emphasizing larger-scale divisions.

community-based

Highlights the involvement and impact on a specific community.

nearby

Emphasizes physical closeness and immediate surroundings.

vicinal

A more formal term for "nearby" or "neighboring".

domestic

Relates to one's own country or household, implying internal affairs.

homegrown

Indicates something originating from a particular place or community.

indigenous

Refers to native or original inhabitants or products of a place.

provincial

Describes qualities or aspects of a province or region, often implying a limited perspective.

grassroots

Indicates origin from common people or the basic level of society.

parochial

Relates to a small, limited area or community, often implying narrow-mindedness.

FAQs

How can I use "local" in a sentence?

You can use "local" to describe something that pertains to a particular area or community, such as "local businesses", "local customs", or "local news".

What are some alternatives to "local"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "regional", "nearby", or "community-based".

Is it correct to say "the local" when referring to a place?

Yes, "the local" is commonly used to refer to a nearby pub or gathering place, especially in British English.

What's the difference between "local" and "domestic"?

"Local" refers to a specific area or community, while "domestic" typically refers to one's own country or household.