stop lights

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stop lights" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to traffic signals that control vehicle and pedestrian movement at intersections. Example: "The stop lights turned red, signaling the cars to come to a halt."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It can't stop at stop lights.

The Guardian - Business

No traffic jams or stop lights.

The New York Times

I pedaled exclusively on side streets with no stop lights.

The New York Times

At stop lights, he checks texts and e-mail messages.

The New York Times - Tech

The city has at least two cycles for its stop lights.

The New York Times

I swear he would fall asleep at stop lights when he was driving.

The New York Times

But I still need speed limits, stop signs and stop lights".

The New York Times - Tech

They have intersections with stop lights, usually suspended on sagging cables well above eye-level.

The Economist

There were no stop lights, but there were two caution lights.

The New York Times - Sports

In the distance, Alondra's mother and aunt crisscrossed at stop lights, selling roses by the dozen.

The New York Times

Then, when he saw her driving her taxi, he would ask her for her phone number at stop lights.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about traffic management or urban planning, use "traffic signals" for a more formal tone; "stop lights" is suitable for general contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "stop lights" when you mean general illumination. "Stop lights" specifically refers to traffic control signals, while "street lights" provide ambient lighting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stop lights" functions primarily as a noun, specifically a plural noun, referring to the traffic control signals at road intersections. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

15%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "stop lights" is a grammatically sound and very common term used to describe traffic control signals, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While "traffic signals" may be preferred in more formal or technical contexts, "stop lights" is widely understood and accepted in everyday language and news media. When writing, remember to distinguish between "stop lights", which control traffic, and "street lights", which provide illumination. Use "traffic signals" for a more formal style. Ludwig's examples illustrate the varied contexts in which this phrase appears, reinforcing its versatility and general applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

traffic signals

Refers to the standardized devices used to control traffic flow at intersections; a more formal term.

traffic lights

A common synonym for "stop lights", widely used and easily understood.

intersection signals

Focuses on the location where the signals are typically found.

road signals

Broader term encompassing various signals used on roads, including stop lights.

signalized intersections

Highlights the presence of signals at intersections, implying stop lights.

lights at intersections

Emphasizes the location of the lights, specifically at road junctions.

traffic control devices

A very formal and comprehensive term that includes stop lights as a subset.

street lights

While primarily for illumination, can sometimes be used in contexts where traffic control is implied.

automated traffic control

Refers to a system managing traffic flow, including stop lights.

stop lamps

Synonym for a vehicle's brake lights.

FAQs

What is another term for "stop lights"?

Synonyms for "stop lights" include "traffic lights" and "traffic signals", which are used interchangeably in most contexts.

Is it correct to say "stop lights" or should I use another phrase?

The phrase "stop lights" is perfectly correct and commonly used in everyday language. More formal alternatives include "traffic lights" or "traffic signals".

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the term "stop lights"?

The term "stop lights" is suitable for general contexts, such as describing driving experiences or discussing road safety. In technical or formal writing, consider using "traffic signals".

What is the difference between "stop lights" and "street lights"?

"Stop lights" are traffic control signals at intersections, while "street lights" provide general illumination on roads and streets.