Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
smart city
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"smart city" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to cities that use technology and digital solutions to improve the lives of citizens and make cities more efficient and sustainable. For example, "The city government has invested heavily in technology to create a smart city where citizens have access to services seamlessly through their mobile phones."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
58 human-written examples
Dubai's smart city, the Silicon Oasis Smart City initiative,2 is currently being developed to meet the not long future needs of the Dubai Plan 2021.
An insecure smart city.
News & Media
"Smart City," May 2, 2016, https://en.wikipedia.org.org
The Smart City Mission should change that.
Academia
Is India's smart city craze doomed from the start?
News & Media
"It's a smart city if you are a Korean.
News & Media
What should be at the heart of a smart city?
News & Media
Think of it as a smart city in a box.
News & Media
However, the current large gap between smart city and sustainable city frameworks suggest that there is a need for developing smart city frameworks further or re-defining the smart city concept.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
2 human-written examples
The company develops smartphone apps that utilize smart-city sensors.
News & Media
The convergence of technology and the city is commonly referred to as the 'smart city'.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When writing about "smart cities", specify the technologies or initiatives that make it "smart". For instance, mention specific implementations like intelligent traffic management systems or energy-efficient buildings.
Common error
Don't just label a city as "smart" without providing concrete examples of the technologies and systems that qualify it as such. Without specifics, the term can become meaningless.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "smart city" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "smart" modifies the noun "city". It describes a city that utilizes technology and data-driven solutions to improve efficiency and quality of life. Ludwig confirms its appropriate usage.
Frequent in
News & Media
34%
Science
33%
Academia
33%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "smart city" is a common and grammatically sound term used to describe urban areas leveraging technology to enhance various aspects of city life. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts, this phrase is typically neutral in tone but can become more formal in scholarly or business discussions. When using "smart city", it's best to provide specific examples of the technologies or initiatives that qualify the city as such to avoid vague generalizations. Related phrases include "intelligent urban center" and "connected city", offering alternative ways to express similar concepts.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
intelligent urban center
Replaces "city" with "urban center", emphasizing the urban aspect. "Intelligent" is a direct synonym for "smart".
connected city
Focuses on the interconnectedness aspect of a smart city, highlighting the integration of various systems.
digital city
Emphasizes the digital infrastructure and technology used within the city.
urban innovation hub
Highlights the innovative aspects and role of the city as a center for technological advancement.
future-ready city
Focuses on the city's preparedness and adaptation for future challenges and technologies.
tech-driven metropolis
Emphasizes the technological drivers behind the city's development and scale.
sustainable and smart urban environment
Combines the aspects of smart technology and environmental sustainability.
eco-friendly smart community
Highlights the community aspect with eco-friendly infrastructure of a city.
digitally enhanced urban area
Focuses on enhancing city experience through digital and technological tools.
future urban landscape
Focuses on futuristic urban planning and landscape.
FAQs
What exactly defines a "smart city"?
A "smart city" integrates technology and data to enhance the quality and sustainability of urban services, infrastructure, and citizen engagement.
What are some examples of initiatives in a "smart city"?
Examples include intelligent traffic systems, smart grids for energy distribution, and citizen engagement platforms. These are typically technology-driven solutions designed to improve urban life.
How does a "smart city" differ from a regular city?
A "smart city" uses data and technology to optimize city operations, resource management, and citizen services, whereas a regular city may not be as technologically integrated or data-driven.
Can you provide an alternative to the phrase "smart city"?
You can use alternatives like "intelligent urban center", "connected city", or "digital city" depending on the context.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested