traffic

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "traffic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the movement of vehicles or people on roads, such as car or pedestrian traffic. For example, "In response to the increasing traffic congestion in the city, the mayor is implementing plans for a new public transit system."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"In more congested areas or particularly busy times of the day, then vehicles on key roads might be given priority in order to keep the traffic flowing".

The Guardian - Tech

Since launching its US and Australia digital editions in 2011 and 2013 respectively, traffic from outside of the UK now represents over two-thirds of the Guardian's total digital audience.

The Guardian

The traffic reduction project This article is part of the Live Better Community Project month.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Since launching its US and Australia digital editions in 2011 and 2013 respectively, traffic from outside of the UK now represents around two-thirds of the Guardian's total digital audience.

The Guardian

Tens of thousands of Hong Kong residents – young and old, rich and poor – have peacefully occupied major thoroughfares across the city, shuttering businesses and bringing traffic to a halt.

The Guardian

He was unarmed, but had allegedly been throwing rocks at traffic.

The Guardian

The 23-second film shows Zambrano-Montes chased across the street by three officers, after he had reportedly been throwing rocks at traffic on a busy intersection.

The Guardian

Even trees and traffic patterns can be changed.

The Guardian

They traffic in human beings, often, as I heard for myself a few weeks back, young girls sold into prostitution; they deal in drugs, with levels of violence unimaginable in the past.

The Guardian - Opinion

But traffic has declined since the 1980s, especially after the construction of a new port across the harbour.

The Guardian

There is no traffic on the island so the best way to explore the stunning Byzantine monasteries and Greek Orthodox churches is by bike or horse-drawn carriage.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing online activity, clarify whether you're referring to website visits ("website traffic") or data transmission ("network traffic") to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "traffic" without context when discussing complex systems. Specify if you mean vehicular, pedestrian, network, or data traffic to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The noun "traffic" primarily functions as a countable or uncountable noun referring to the movement of vehicles, people, or data. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English and the examples provided show its function in describing various types of movement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "traffic" is a versatile noun with various applications, primarily referring to the movement of vehicles, people, or data. As pointed out by Ludwig AI, the term is grammatically correct and very common in written English. Its usage spans from describing road conditions in news reports to quantifying data flow in technical contexts. To avoid ambiguity, specify the type of "traffic" you are referencing. While neutral in register, its formal alternatives like "commerce" or "flow of goods" might be more suitable for professional or business settings. Always consider the context to ensure clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vehicular flow

Emphasizes the movement of vehicles, especially in a continuous stream.

road congestion

Highlights the state of being overcrowded with vehicles, causing delays.

pedestrian movement

Specifically refers to the motion of people walking, rather than vehicles.

internet data transfer

Focuses on the exchange of digital information online.

flow of goods

Emphasizes the movement of products from one place to another

illegal trading

Refers to the unlawful exchange of goods or substances.

movement of people

Highlights people displacement/migration

commerce

Highlights any type of trade or business transactions

cyber activity

Relates to the movement and exchange of data on a computer network.

business activity

Focuses on the volume and nature of commercial transactions.

FAQs

How can I use "traffic" in a sentence about website analytics?

You might say, "The website experienced a significant increase in "traffic" after the marketing campaign launched."

What's a more formal alternative to "traffic" when discussing business?

In a formal business context, consider using "commerce", "business activity", or "flow of goods" depending on the specific meaning you intend to convey.

How does "traffic" relate to the term "congestion"?

"Traffic" refers to the general movement, while "congestion" describes a state where that movement is slowed or blocked due to excessive volume. For example, heavy traffic can lead to congestion.

In what contexts might "traffic" refer to illegal activities?

"Traffic" can describe illegal trade, such as in the phrase "illegal trading of drugs" or "trafficking in human beings". It's crucial to be aware of this connotation to avoid misinterpretations.