en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

"Metropolitan" vs. "cosmopolitan": urban vocabulary

Reviewed and edited by Anwar Kareem 10/10/2024, 03:33
English.me team member
Metropolitan and cosmopolitan. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "metropolitan" and "cosmopolitan" relate to cities and urban life. They share connotations of diversity, culture, and sophistication. Both words are often used to describe places or people characterized by a wide variety of influences and experiences.

What is different?

Metropolitan refers specifically to characteristics of a large city or urban area and its surroundings. Cosmopolitan implies an international or multicultural influence, a worldly and open-minded view, often associated with a mix of global elements.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for metropolitan) and cosmopolitan

Examples of usage

Metropolitan
  • The metropolitan area has a population of over 10 million people.
  • Public transportation in the metropolitan region is highly developed.
  • She lives in a metropolitan city with a vibrant nightlife.
Cosmopolitan
  • His cosmopolitan background allowed him to adapt quickly to new cultures.
  • She has a cosmopolitan palate, enjoying cuisines from all over the world.
  • Paris is often regarded as a cosmopolitan city, attracting people from across the globe.

Recommended posts in Difference

"Continuance" vs. "continuation": a never-ending word match

"Continuance" vs. "continuation": a never-ending word match

While both words relate to the concept of continuing, "continuation" ... Learn more →

Trash talk: distinguishing "junk" from "crap"

Trash talk: distinguishing "junk" from "crap"

"Junk" is often used to refer to physical objects or ... Learn more →

Comparing "truly" vs. "really": nuances and uses

Comparing "truly" vs. "really": nuances and uses

While both can be used for emphasis, "truly" often implies ... Learn more →

"Antithetical" vs. "contradictory": words in contrast

"Antithetical" vs. "contradictory": words in contrast

The word "antithetical" specifically denotes a relationship of direct opposition ... Learn more →