postal code

USAGE SUMMARY

"postal code" is a correct and usable term in written English.
You can use it whenever you are referring to the unique sequence of numbers or letters used to identify the location in a particular postal area or region. For example, the postal code for the White House is 20500.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Urbanization (place of residence) was derived from the postal code.

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

But another contender is a Swiss village, postal code 7122.

The New York Times - Magazine

Trempe, J. F. Reading the ubiquitin postal code.

Nature

Definition: The ZIP or other postal code of the address.

Columbia University

Significant deviations were observed for pTNM classification and postal code of birth.

Cancer-Radiothérapie

Residents complain that when potential employers see their postal code, 31200, they are immediately disqualified.

The New York Times

All postal code variables were geocoded using the Statistics Canada Postal Code Conversion File PCCFF).

Injury Epidemiology

These conclusions hold when postal code dummies are included.

SERIEs

Based on this information, we construct a variable which we call 'postal code employment rate' defined as the percentage of individuals employed in the postal code area for each of 1,019 postal code areas.

IZA Journal of Migration

The highest postal code effects in both cities correspond to sought-after areas.

SERIEs

(A) Geographic locations of respondent data by six digit postal code.

Injury Epidemiology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking for an address, clearly specify that you need the "postal code" to avoid confusion with other address elements, such as street names or apartment numbers.

Common error

Avoid using "postal code" interchangeably with terms like area code or zip code, as they serve different functions and apply to different regions. Always use the correct term for the specific context to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "postal code" functions as a noun, specifically a common noun, identifying a system of codes used for postal delivery. Ludwig confirms its use in varied contexts. It often acts as an attribute, modifying other nouns (e.g., "postal code area").

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

51%

News & Media

21%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The analysis reveals that "postal code" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term across various domains. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, referring to a unique identifier for postal delivery. Its presence is dominant in scientific and news contexts, with neutral formality. When writing, ensure that the correct format for the "postal code" is used based on the country. Alternative phrases, like "zip code" or "postcode", can be used depending on the geographical context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

zip code

This term is primarily used in the United States.

postcode

This is the preferred term in the United Kingdom and some other countries.

address code

Refers to the code as part of the whole address.

mailing address code

This phrase is more descriptive and emphasizes the code's function.

postal address identifier

A more formal and descriptive alternative.

delivery code

This term focuses on the delivery aspect of the postal system.

area code

While it can sometimes overlap, area code refers specifically to a code that designates a geographic region for telephone numbers.

zip area

Informal term, referring to the geographic zone that shares a postal code.

geographic identifier

This is a broader term that includes any code identifying a geographic location.

location code

Similar to geographic identifier but more general.

FAQs

How do I properly format a "postal code" in an address?

The format of a "postal code" varies by country. In the US, it's typically a 5-digit number, sometimes followed by a 4-digit extension. In Canada, it's a 6-character alphanumeric code. Always check the specific country's format.

What is the difference between a "postal code" and a "zip code"?

The term "zip code" is specifically used in the United States, while "postal code" is a more general term used internationally. Both serve the same purpose: to help postal services efficiently deliver mail.

Where can I find the "postal code" for an address?

You can find the "postal code" by using online search tools, postal service websites, or by contacting the local postal office. Make sure to have the full address ready.

Why is it important to include the "postal code" when sending mail?

Including the "postal code" ensures that your mail is sorted and delivered accurately and efficiently. Without it, delivery may be delayed or impossible.