postcode

USAGE SUMMARY

'postcode' is a correct and commonly used word in written English.
It refers to a numerical or alphanumeric code used to identify a specific postal delivery area. Example: "Don't forget to include your postcode on the address label when sending out the invitations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Gang culture on the other hand is more long term and rises from people wearing a different coloured bandana, living in a different postcode or having a certain name engaging in conflict.

The Guardian

However, children's social care is still based on a complex web of legislation – which leaves a postcode lottery where entitlement is difficult to understand and time is wasted arguing about whether a child is eligible for social care.

The Guardian

Reports by Rebalancing our Cultural Capital and Place have recently pointed out big postcode disparities in the spending per head on arts provision.

The Guardian

He says access to MBCT throughout the NHS is patchy and "effectively a postcode lottery".

The Guardian

If you've ever wondered what your house would look like smothered in Christmas lights, but didn't want to break the national grid, simply add your postcode to bring up your house on Google Street View and then illuminate to your heart's content - and round off with a donation to Shelter.

The Guardian

It will also break down your use by category such as hot water, cooking, heating, lighting and appliances and show how much it's costing you – which you can then compare against other smart meter users' bills for similar homes in in the same postcode.

The Guardian

Distance 2.8 miles/4.6 km Typical duration 1 hour Start and finish Sheffield Cathedral Start postcode S1 1HA Step-by-step details and maps ramblers.org.uk/sheffield This is a lovely varied walk from Sheffield city centre, starting at the cathedral and heading along the river Don to Kelham island and past the Kelham Island Museum.

The Guardian - Travel

Distance 3.5 miles/5.6km Typical duration 1 hour 45 mins Start and finish Start at Lewisham national rail and DLR station and finish at Cutty Sark DLR station Start postcode SE13 7RY Step-by-step details and maps ramblers.org.uk/blackheathroute This linear walk showcases a truly beautiful area of London, crossing between two very different boroughs.

The Guardian - Travel

To pull off the trick of being in the Marvel universe but not necessarily in the same postcode as the films, the writers have assembled a team around Clark Gregg's Agent Coulson.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

All people with advanced progressive incurable illnesses would receive palliative care, regardless of diagnosis or postcode.

The Guardian

They like localism in theory, but fears of postcode lotteries and two-tier systems have launched a thousand local press releases.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking for an address, always specify that you need the "postcode" to ensure accurate mail delivery. This avoids confusion, especially in international contexts where postal code systems vary.

Common error

Avoid using "postcode" interchangeably with terms like "area code" or "zip code". While they all identify locations, "postcode" specifically refers to the UK's postal code system. Using the wrong term can cause confusion and miscommunication.

Linguistic Context

The word "postcode" functions primarily as a noun, identifying a postal code used to aid in mail delivery. As evidenced by Ludwig, it can also function as a verb, meaning to assign a postal code.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

8%

Less common in

Travel

5%

Opinion

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "postcode" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term primarily functioning as a noun to denote a postal code. As confirmed by Ludwig, it can also be used as a verb. Its primary function is to specify a geographical location for efficient mail delivery and various analytical purposes. The term maintains a neutral register, fitting diverse contexts from news media to formal documents. Common usage patterns reveal its prevalence in news and media, formal business settings, and scientific discussions. While "postcode" is the standard term in the UK, it's crucial to avoid confusion with similar location identifiers like area codes or zip codes. By considering these nuances, you can confidently and accurately use "postcode" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Postal code

A more general term for a code used in postal addresses, common in North America.

Zip code

Specifically refers to the postal code system used in the United States.

Address code

A shortened way to refer to codes that make up part of addresses

Mailing address code

A more descriptive term for a code used in postal addresses.

District code

Refers to a specific administrative or postal district.

Delivery area

Focuses on the region served by a particular postal service.

Area code

While primarily for telephone numbering, it denotes a specific geographic region.

Geographic identifier

A broader term for any code that identifies a specific location.

Location code

A general term for a code representing a specific location.

Territorial code

A broader term that might include codes for regions or territories.

FAQs

How do I use "postcode" in a sentence?

You can use "postcode" in a sentence like this: "Please provide your full address, including your "postcode", so we can ship your order accurately."

What is another word for "postcode"?

Alternatives to "postcode" include "postal code" or "zip code", although the latter is specifically used in the United States.

Is it correct to say "post code" instead of "postcode"?

While "post code" (with a space) is understandable, the standard and more commonly used form is "postcode" (without a space).

What's the difference between "postcode" and "area code"?

A "postcode" identifies a specific postal delivery area, while an "area code" identifies a telephone numbering region. They serve different purposes and are not interchangeable.