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A2 noun #43 most common 16 min read

neighbor

Top 43

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips neighbor in 30 Seconds

Explanation neighbor in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'neighbor' is one of the first nouns you learn to describe people in your life. It is a simple concept: a person who lives in the house or apartment next to yours. You use it to identify who lives near you. For example, 'My neighbor is nice.' At this level, you don't need to worry about complex grammar. Just remember that it is a person. You might learn it alongside other family and community words like 'mother,' 'father,' 'friend,' and 'teacher.' You can use it with simple adjectives like 'good,' 'bad,' 'happy,' or 'old.' It is important to know that a neighbor is a person, not a place. You can say 'I see my neighbor,' but you don't 'live in a neighbor.' You live in a house, and the person next to you is your neighbor. Learning this word helps you talk about your daily life and the people you see every day. It is a very common word in basic English conversations.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'neighbor' in more descriptive sentences and understand its role in the community. You can talk about what your neighbors do, such as 'My neighbor works in a bank' or 'My neighbor has a dog.' You also learn the phrase 'next-door neighbor' to be more specific. You start to use possessive forms, like 'my neighbor's car.' You might also learn the word 'neighborhood' and understand that it refers to the area where you and your neighbors live. At this level, you can participate in simple conversations about your living situation, such as describing if your neighbors are noisy or quiet. You are also introduced to the idea of being 'neighborly,' which means being kind and helpful to those living near you. Understanding 'neighbor' at A2 allows you to provide more detail about your social environment and the people you interact with on a regular basis.

At the B1 level, you can use 'neighbor' to discuss more complex social interactions and community issues. You might talk about 'neighborly relations' or 'disputes between neighbors.' You can use the word in different tenses and with a wider range of verbs, such as 'I have been getting along well with my neighbors lately.' You also start to see the word used in more idiomatic ways or in broader contexts, such as 'neighboring countries' when discussing geography or travel. You can express opinions about what makes a 'good neighbor' and discuss the importance of community support. At this level, you are comfortable using the plural possessive ('my neighbors' houses') and can distinguish between the person and the area ('neighbor' vs. 'neighborhood') without much thought. You might also encounter the word in more formal settings, such as reading a local news article or a community newsletter.

At the B2 level, you understand the nuances of the word 'neighbor' in various registers. You can use it in formal discussions about urban planning, sociology, or international relations. For example, you might analyze how 'neighboring states' cooperate on environmental issues. You are familiar with common idioms and proverbs involving the word, such as 'Good fences make good neighbors,' and can explain their meaning in a cultural context. You can also use the word to describe more abstract concepts of proximity, such as 'neighboring concepts' in a theoretical discussion. Your vocabulary includes related terms like 'resident,' 'occupant,' and 'dweller,' and you know when to use each one appropriately. You can write detailed descriptions of community dynamics and the role that neighbors play in social cohesion. At this level, the word 'neighbor' is a versatile tool in your vocabulary for both personal and professional communication.

At the C1 level, you have a sophisticated understanding of 'neighbor' and its derivatives. You can use the word to explore complex themes in literature, philosophy, and law. You might discuss the 'neighbor principle' in legal studies, which relates to the duty of care one owes to others. You are aware of the historical and etymological roots of the word and how its meaning has shifted over time. You can use 'neighbor' and 'neighboring' with high precision in academic writing, such as 'the neighboring regions exhibited similar demographic trends.' You are also sensitive to the cultural implications of the word in different English-speaking societies, such as the specific expectations of neighborliness in suburban America versus urban Britain. You can engage in deep discussions about the 'death of the neighborhood' in the digital age and the changing nature of human proximity. Your use of the word is fluid, accurate, and contextually rich.

At the C2 level, you master the word 'neighbor' in all its forms and applications. You can use it with the subtlety and flair of a highly educated native speaker. You might employ the word in creative writing to evoke specific atmospheres or to explore the psychological boundaries between individuals. You are comfortable using the word in highly specialized fields, such as mathematics (neighboring points in a set) or biology (neighboring cells in a tissue). You can critique the use of the word in political rhetoric, such as the 'Good Neighbor Policy,' and understand its historical impact. You are also aware of rare or archaic uses of the word and can interpret them in classical literature. Your command of the word allows you to use it metaphorically to describe any form of close relationship or adjacency with perfect clarity and impact. At this level, 'neighbor' is not just a word, but a concept you can manipulate to express complex ideas with elegance.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

neighbor in 30 Seconds

A neighbor is a person living in close proximity to your residence, typically next door or in the same building.
The word is a countable noun and can be used in singular or plural forms to describe individuals or groups.
It carries a social connotation of community and shared responsibility, often described by the adjective 'neighborly'.
In broader contexts, it can refer to adjacent countries, properties, or even abstract objects that are situated near each other.

The word neighbor (spelled neighbour in British English) fundamentally refers to a person who lives near you. However, the depth of this word extends far beyond simple geography. In a sociological sense, a neighbor represents the first layer of community outside of the family unit. Historically, the term is derived from Old English words meaning 'near' and 'dweller,' emphasizing the physical proximity that defines the relationship. When people use this word, they are often describing a specific social dynamic that balances privacy with communal responsibility. You might have a neighbor you speak to every day, or a neighbor you only see once a year. Regardless of the frequency of interaction, the shared space—whether it is a shared wall in an apartment complex or a fence between suburban yards—creates a unique bond. In modern urban environments, the concept of a neighbor has evolved to include those living in the same building or even the same floor, while in rural areas, a neighbor might live several miles away. The term is also used metaphorically to describe things that are adjacent or nearby, such as 'neighboring countries' or 'neighboring cells' in a spreadsheet. Understanding the nuances of this word involves recognizing the expectations of 'neighborliness'—the unwritten rules of being helpful, quiet, and respectful of shared boundaries. People use this word in everyday conversation to identify individuals in their immediate vicinity, to report news within a local area, or to discuss the quality of their living environment. It is a neutral term that can carry positive connotations (a 'good neighbor') or negative ones (a 'noisy neighbor'), depending on the context of the interaction.

Proximity: The defining characteristic of a neighbor is being physically close to one's residence.
Social Role: Neighbors often act as informal guardians of a community, watching over each other's property.

My neighbor helped me carry my groceries when the elevator was broken.

We invited our new neighbor over for a cup of coffee to welcome them to the street.

The neighbor's dog barked loudly during the night, waking up the whole block.

It is important to be a considerate neighbor by keeping noise levels down after 10 PM.

I asked my neighbor to water my plants while I was away on vacation.

Community Ethics: The concept of 'loving thy neighbor' is a central tenet in many religions and ethical systems.
Legal Context: Neighbor disputes over property lines or noise are common issues handled by local councils or courts.

Furthermore, the word 'neighbor' is deeply embedded in the concept of the 'neighborhood'—the collective area and the people within it. When we talk about our neighbors, we are often talking about the safety and social health of our immediate environment. A 'good neighbor' is someone who is reliable, while a 'bad neighbor' might be someone who is disruptive. In the digital age, the definition of neighbor is sometimes stretched to include people in online communities, but its primary meaning remains rooted in physical space. Whether you live in a high-rise apartment in Tokyo or a farmhouse in Kansas, your neighbor is the person with whom you share the most immediate external reality. This shared reality necessitates a level of cooperation that is unique to the neighbor relationship, distinguishing it from friendships or professional associations. You don't choose your neighbors in the same way you choose your friends, which adds a layer of complexity to the interactions. You must learn to coexist with people who may have very different lifestyles, beliefs, or habits, simply because they live next door.

Using the word neighbor correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical function as a countable noun. In most cases, it is used to identify a person. For example, 'I have a neighbor who plays the piano.' Here, 'neighbor' is the subject of the relative clause. It can also be used as a possessive: 'My neighbor's garden is beautiful.' Notice the placement of the apostrophe before the 's' for a single neighbor. If you are talking about multiple neighbors, the apostrophe goes after the 's': 'My neighbors' opinions vary.' When using the word, it is common to pair it with adjectives that describe the nature of the relationship or the person's character. Common pairings include 'next-door neighbor,' 'immediate neighbor,' 'friendly neighbor,' and 'noisy neighbor.' The phrase 'next-door neighbor' is particularly specific, referring to the person in the house or apartment immediately adjacent to yours. You can also use 'neighbor' in a collective sense, such as 'The neighbors are complaining about the trash,' where 'the neighbors' refers to the group of people living in the vicinity. In more formal or academic writing, 'neighbor' might appear in discussions of geography or international relations, such as 'Canada is a neighbor of the United States.' In this context, it refers to a bordering country. It is also important to distinguish between 'neighbor' (the person) and 'neighborhood' (the area). A common mistake for learners is saying 'I live in a good neighbor' when they mean 'I live in a good neighborhood.' Remember that the neighbor is the human being, while the neighborhood is the place. Additionally, the word can be used as a verb, meaning to be situated next to something. For example, 'The new library neighbors the town hall.' This usage is more formal and less frequent in casual speech. When speaking, the stress is on the first syllable: NEIGH-bor. Mastering the use of this word involves not just knowing the definition, but understanding the social context in which it is used. It is a word that bridges the gap between the private home and the public world.

Singular vs. Plural: Use 'neighbor' for one person and 'neighbors' for more than one.
Possessive Forms: 'Neighbor's' (one neighbor) vs. 'Neighbors'' (multiple neighbors).

Our neighbor from across the street is a retired teacher.

The neighbor to my left is very quiet, but the one to my right is quite loud.

She is a neighbor of mine, though we don't speak often.

All the neighbors gathered for a block party last Saturday.

Being a good neighbor means more than just saying hello.

Common Verbs: Commonly used with verbs like 'meet,' 'help,' 'ignore,' or 'disturb.'
Prepositions: Commonly used with 'to,' 'from,' and 'of.' Example: 'The neighbor to the north.'

In summary, 'neighbor' is a versatile noun that describes a key social relationship based on physical proximity. Whether you are writing a formal letter to a local council about a neighbor's planning application or telling a friend a funny story about the person next door, the word remains central to our description of community life. Pay attention to the spelling and the distinction between the person and the place, and you will be able to use this word effectively in a wide variety of contexts. It is one of the most useful words for anyone living in a shared society, as it captures the essence of our daily interactions with those who live closest to us.

The word neighbor is ubiquitous in English-speaking cultures, appearing in everything from children's television to serious legal proceedings. Perhaps the most famous cultural reference is 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood,' where the host, Fred Rogers, would begin every episode by asking, 'Won't you be my neighbor?' This cemented the word as a symbol of kindness, acceptance, and community in the American consciousness. In this context, being a neighbor is an invitation to a friendly, supportive relationship. You will also hear this word frequently in news reports, particularly when local events occur. Reporters might interview a 'neighbor who witnessed the event' or discuss how a 'neighboring community' is responding to a crisis. In these instances, the word provides a sense of immediacy and local relevance. In the world of real estate, the term is used to describe the 'neighboring properties' or the 'vibe of the neighbors' to potential buyers. Real estate agents know that the quality of neighbors can significantly impact property value. In popular culture, sitcoms often revolve around the relationship between neighbors. Shows like 'Friends,' 'Seinfeld,' and 'The Big Bang Theory' feature characters who are neighbors, highlighting the frequent, often humorous, and sometimes intrusive nature of these relationships. You might hear characters say, 'My neighbor is driving me crazy!' or 'I'm going to borrow some sugar from the neighbor.' These tropes reflect the real-life reality of shared living spaces. In legal and civic contexts, you will hear the word in 'Neighborhood Watch' programs, where residents cooperate to prevent crime. You might also hear it in 'neighbor disputes' regarding property boundaries, noise complaints, or shared fences. In these situations, the word takes on a more formal, sometimes adversarial tone. Furthermore, in religious and philosophical discussions, the 'neighbor' is often used as a proxy for 'other people' or 'fellow human beings,' as in the biblical command to 'love thy neighbor as thyself.' This usage transcends physical proximity and speaks to a universal moral obligation. Whether in a casual chat over a fence, a scripted television show, or a serious community meeting, the word 'neighbor' is a constant presence in the English language, reflecting our inherent need for social connection and the challenges of living in close proximity to others.

Pop Culture: Sitcoms often use the 'nosy neighbor' trope for comedic effect.
News & Media: Neighbors are often the primary sources for local human-interest stories.

'Won't you be my neighbor?' — Fred Rogers

The Neighborhood Watch program has reduced local crime by twenty percent.

I heard it from a neighbor that the house on the corner is for sale.

Our neighbors are always so helpful when we need to borrow tools.

The neighboring states are coordinating their disaster response efforts.

Literature: Robert Frost's poem 'Mending Wall' famously explores the idea that 'Good fences make good neighbors.'
Daily Life: Commonly heard in phrases like 'Love thy neighbor' or 'Hi, neighbor!'

In summary, the word 'neighbor' is heard in a vast array of settings, from the most casual to the most formal. It is a word that carries significant cultural weight, representing both the ideal of community and the practical reality of shared space. Whether you are watching a movie, reading the news, or simply walking down your street, you will encounter this word and the complex social dynamics it represents. It is a fundamental part of how we describe our place in the world and our relationships with those around us.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with the word neighbor is confusing it with the word neighborhood. While they are related, they represent different things: a 'neighbor' is a person, whereas a 'neighborhood' is a place or a geographic area. For example, saying 'I like my neighbor' means you like the person living next to you, but saying 'I like my neighborhood' means you like the area where you live. Another common error involves the spelling of the word. As mentioned previously, American English uses 'neighbor,' while British English uses 'neighbour.' Using the wrong spelling in the wrong regional context isn't necessarily a grammatical error, but it can be a stylistic inconsistency. Learners also often struggle with the correct prepositions to use with 'neighbor.' While 'next-door neighbor' is a fixed phrase, when describing a neighbor's location relative to your own, you should use 'to' or 'of.' For example, 'the neighbor to my left' or 'a neighbor of mine.' Avoid saying 'the neighbor at my left.' Additionally, the plural possessive often trips people up. Remember that 'my neighbors' house' (singular possessive) refers to the house of one neighbor, while 'my neighbors' houses' (plural possessive) refers to the houses of multiple neighbors. Another subtle mistake is using 'neighbor' when 'acquaintance' or 'friend' might be more appropriate. A neighbor is specifically defined by proximity; if you know someone well but they live across town, they are a friend, not a neighbor. Conversely, just because someone is your neighbor doesn't mean they are your friend. Using the word too broadly can lead to confusion about the nature of the relationship. Finally, some learners try to use 'neighbor' as a verb in casual speech in ways that sound unnatural. While 'neighboring' is a common adjective (e.g., 'neighboring countries'), using 'neighbor' as a verb (e.g., 'He neighbors me') is very rare and usually replaced by 'He lives next to me.' By being mindful of these distinctions—person vs. place, regional spelling, correct prepositions, and the specific nature of the relationship—you can avoid common pitfalls and use the word with the precision of a native speaker.

Neighbor vs. Neighborhood: Neighbor = Person. Neighborhood = Area. Do not swap them.
Spelling Consistency: Stick to one regional spelling (US: neighbor, UK: neighbour) within a single document.

Incorrect: I live in a very friendly neighbor. (Should be 'neighborhood')

Incorrect: He is my neighbor at the left. (Should be 'to the left')

Incorrect: The neighbors dog is barking. (Should be 'neighbor's' or 'neighbors'')

Incorrect: I neighbor the park. (Better: 'My house is next to the park')

Incorrect: My neighbor lives in another city. (A neighbor must live nearby by definition)

Preposition Pitfall: Use 'neighbor of' for people and 'neighbor to' for locations.
Adjective Confusion: 'Neighboring' is for things (countries, rooms), 'neighborly' is for behavior (kindness).

To avoid these mistakes, practice using the word in context. Think about the specific people who live near you and describe them using the correct forms. Pay attention to how native speakers use the word in movies or books, and you will soon find that these common errors become easy to avoid. Remember, the key to mastering any word is understanding its specific boundaries and how it interacts with other words in a sentence.

While neighbor is the most common word for someone living nearby, there are several alternatives that can be used depending on the level of formality and the specific context. A more formal term is resident. While a neighbor is someone who lives near you, a resident is simply someone who lives in a particular place. You might hear a building manager talk about the 'residents of the apartment complex.' This term is more clinical and less personal than 'neighbor.' Another related word is dweller, often used in compounds like 'city-dweller' or 'apartment-dweller.' This focuses on the type of place someone inhabits rather than their proximity to you. In a very local or old-fashioned context, you might hear the word local. A 'local' is someone who lives in the area, but not necessarily right next door. If you want to emphasize the shared community, you might use fellow resident or community member. These terms highlight the shared social bond. For someone living in the same building, co-resident is a technical term, though rarely used in casual speech. If you are talking about countries, bordering nation or adjacent country are more formal alternatives to 'neighboring country.' In terms of behavior, if a neighbor is very friendly, you might call them a friend, but if the relationship is strictly about proximity, 'neighbor' remains the best choice. On the other hand, if the relationship is negative, you might use terms like nuisance or disturber of the peace in a legal context. Understanding these alternatives allows you to choose the word that best fits the tone of your conversation or writing. For instance, in a lease agreement, 'resident' is preferred, while in a friendly chat, 'neighbor' is much more natural. Each of these words carries a slightly different nuance, from the warmth of 'neighbor' to the administrative neutrality of 'resident.' By expanding your vocabulary with these synonyms, you can describe your social environment with greater precision and variety.

Neighbor vs. Resident: Neighbor implies a personal connection or proximity; Resident is more formal and administrative.
Neighbor vs. Local: Neighbor is someone living next door; Local is anyone living in the general area or town.

The residents of the building held a meeting to discuss the new security measures.

As a local, I can tell you that the best bakery is just around the corner.

The adjacent apartment is currently vacant and available for rent.

We should treat our fellow citizens with the same respect we show our neighbors.

The occupants of the house were not home when the delivery arrived.

Comparison: Neighbor vs. Acquaintance: An acquaintance is someone you know slightly; a neighbor is someone who lives near you. You can have a neighbor who is an acquaintance, or a neighbor who is a stranger.
Comparison: Neighbor vs. Friend: A friend is based on affection and shared interests; a neighbor is based on location. Ideally, a neighbor becomes a friend, but it is not required.

In conclusion, while 'neighbor' is the standard and most versatile term, being aware of these alternatives will help you navigate different social and professional situations. Whether you are filling out a form, writing a story, or having a conversation, choosing the right word for the person living nearby will make your English sound more natural and sophisticated. Always consider the context and the level of relationship you want to convey.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The 'gh' in neighbor used to be pronounced as a guttural sound, similar to the 'ch' in 'Bach', before it became silent in modern English.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈneɪ.bə/

US /ˈneɪ.bɚ/

The primary stress is on the first syllable: NEIGH-bor.

Rhymes With

labor saber tabor favor savor waver aver flavor

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'gh' (it is silent).
Stressing the second syllable (it should be NEIGH-bor, not neigh-BOR).
Confusing the 'ei' sound with 'ee' (it's 'ay', not 'ee').
Over-pronouncing the 'o' in the second syllable (it's a schwa sound).
Forgetting the 'r' sound in American English.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word is very common and easy to recognize in text.

Writing 3/5

Spelling (neighbor vs. neighbour) and possessive forms can be tricky.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once the silent 'gh' is learned.

Listening 2/5

Easily understood in context, though regional accents may vary the 'r' sound.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

house live near person street

Learn Next

neighborhood community resident boundary proximity

Advanced

vicinity contiguous adjacent neighborliness jurisdiction

Grammar to Know

Possessive Nouns

The neighbor's car is blue.

Relative Clauses

The neighbor who lives in 4B is a musician.

Compound Adjectives

She is my next-door neighbor.

Pluralization

I have many neighbors.

Prepositional Phrases

He is a neighbor of mine.

Examples by Level

My neighbor is very kind.

Mon voisin est très gentil.

Subject + Verb + Adjective

I have one neighbor.

J'ai un voisin.

Countable noun, singular

Hello, neighbor!

Bonjour, voisin !

Direct address

My neighbor has a cat.

Mon voisin a un chat.

Possessive relationship

Is your neighbor home?

Votre voisin est-il à la maison ?

Question form

That is my neighbor's house.

C'est la maison de mon voisin.

Singular possessive ('s)

The neighbor is quiet.

Le voisin est calme.

Definite article 'the'

I like my neighbors.

J'aime mes voisins.

Plural form

My next-door neighbor is a doctor.

Mon voisin d'à côté est médecin.

Compound adjective 'next-door'

We invited our neighbors to the party.

Nous avons invité nos voisins à la fête.

Direct object

My neighbor's dog barks a lot.

Le chien de mon voisin aboie beaucoup.

Possessive noun

I don't know my neighbors very well.

Je ne connais pas très bien mes voisins.

Negative sentence

The new neighbor moved in yesterday.

Le nouveau voisin a emménagé hier.

Past tense verb

She is a friendly neighbor.

C'est une voisine amicale.

Adjective 'friendly'

Can you help your neighbor?

Peux-tu aider ton voisin ?

Modal verb 'can'

My neighbor lives in apartment 4B.

Mon voisin habite dans l'appartement 4B.

Prepositional phrase

I've always tried to be a good neighbor.

J'ai toujours essayé d'être un bon voisin.

Present perfect tense

The neighbors are complaining about the noise.

Les voisins se plaignent du bruit.

Present continuous tense

We share a fence with our neighbor.

Nous partageons une clôture avec notre voisin.

Verb 'share'

It's important to maintain a good relationship with your neighbors.

Il est important de maintenir une bonne relation avec ses voisins.

Infinitive phrase

My neighbor offered to water my plants while I'm away.

Mon voisin a proposé d'arroser mes plantes pendant mon absence.

Verb + to-infinitive

The neighboring town is only ten miles away.

La ville voisine n'est qu'à dix miles.

Adjective 'neighboring'

He's more than just a neighbor; he's a close friend.

C'est plus qu'un simple voisin ; c'est un ami proche.

Comparative structure

I heard from a neighbor that the store is closing.

J'ai appris par un voisin que le magasin allait fermer.

Prepositional phrase 'from a neighbor'

The dispute between the neighbors was settled in court.

Le litige entre les voisins a été réglé au tribunal.

Passive voice

Good fences make good neighbors, as the saying goes.

Les bonnes clôtures font les bons voisins, comme le dit le proverbe.

Proverbial usage

The neighboring countries signed a trade agreement.

Les pays voisins ont signé un accord commercial.

Political context

She was accused of being a nosy neighbor.

Elle a été accusée d'être une voisine indiscrète.

Adjective 'nosy'

The neighborhood has changed significantly since I was a child.

Le quartier a beaucoup changé depuis que je suis enfant.

Noun 'neighborhood'

We should be considerate of our neighbors' privacy.

Nous devrions être respectueux de la vie privée de nos voisins.

Plural possessive

The neighborly thing to do would be to help them move.

La chose la plus amicale à faire serait de les aider à déménager.

Adjective 'neighborly'

He lives in a neighboring apartment building.

Il habite dans un immeuble voisin.

Attributive adjective

The concept of 'neighbor' extends beyond mere physical proximity.

Le concept de « voisin » s'étend au-delà de la simple proximité physique.

Abstract noun usage

The legal 'neighbor principle' establishes a duty of care.

Le « principe du voisin » juridique établit une obligation de diligence.

Legal terminology

The two neighboring properties share a common driveway.

Les deux propriétés voisines partagent une allée commune.

Technical description

He felt a sense of obligation toward his fellow neighbors.

Il ressentait un sentiment d'obligation envers ses concitoyens.

Formal phrasing

The noise from the neighboring construction site was deafening.

Le bruit du chantier voisin était assourdissant.

Participial adjective

The study examined the social dynamics of urban neighbors.

L'étude a examiné la dynamique sociale des voisins urbains.

Academic context

Being a neighborly person involves a high degree of empathy.

Être une personne serviable implique un haut degré d'empathie.

Complex subject

The neighboring regions have vastly different cultural traditions.

Les régions voisines ont des traditions culturelles très différentes.

Geographical comparison

The geopolitical tensions between the neighboring states reached a breaking point.

Les tensions géopolitiques entre les États voisins ont atteint un point de rupture.

Advanced vocabulary

In the realm of mathematics, we define a neighbor as a point within a certain epsilon.

Dans le domaine des mathématiques, nous définissons un voisin comme un point situé dans un certain epsilon.

Scientific definition

The protagonist's isolation was highlighted by the indifference of his neighbors.

L'isolement du protagoniste était souligné par l'indifférence de ses voisins.

Literary analysis

The architecture of the building was designed to foster interaction among neighbors.

L'architecture du bâtiment a été conçue pour favoriser l'interaction entre les voisins.

Passive construction

One must be wary of the 'nosy neighbor' archetype in suburban literature.

Il faut se méfier de l'archétype du « voisin indiscret » dans la littérature de banlieue.

Critical analysis

The neighboring cells in the tissue communicate via gap junctions.

Les cellules voisines du tissu communiquent via des jonctions communicantes.

Biological context

The treaty aimed to promote 'good neighborliness' across the continent.

Le traité visait à promouvoir le « bon voisinage » à travers le continent.

Formal abstract noun

His behavior was anything but neighborly, causing much friction in the community.

Son comportement était tout sauf amical, ce qui causait beaucoup de frictions dans la communauté.

Idiomatic expression

Common Collocations

next-door neighbor

friendly neighbor

noisy neighbor

good neighbor

neighboring country

immediate neighbor

neighboring property

love thy neighbor

neighborly relations

nosy neighbor

Common Phrases

hi, neighbor

— A casual greeting to someone living nearby.

Hi, neighbor! How are you today?

neighbor to the north/south

— Describes a person or place located in a specific direction.

Our neighbor to the north has a beautiful garden.

from across the street

— Often used with neighbor to specify location.

The neighbor from across the street brought us some cookies.

new neighbor

— Someone who has recently moved into the area.

Have you met the new neighbor yet?

old neighbor

— Someone who has lived nearby for a long time, or a former neighbor.

I ran into an old neighbor at the supermarket.

neighbor's yard

— The outdoor area belonging to the person next door.

The ball landed in the neighbor's yard.

borrow from a neighbor

— A common social interaction involving small items.

I need to borrow some flour from a neighbor.

neighbor's house

— The physical dwelling of the person nearby.

We are going over to the neighbor's house for dinner.

talk to a neighbor

— Engaging in conversation with someone nearby.

I spent an hour talking to a neighbor this morning.

neighbor's dog/cat

— Referring to the pets of those living nearby.

The neighbor's dog is very friendly.

Often Confused With

neighbor vs neighborhood

Neighborhood is the place; neighbor is the person.

neighbor vs neighborly

Neighborly is an adjective describing behavior, not a person.

neighbor vs next door

'Next door' is an adverbial phrase; 'next-door neighbor' is the person.

Idioms & Expressions

"Good fences make good neighbors"

— Respecting boundaries and privacy helps maintain a positive relationship.

We decided to build a wall because good fences make good neighbors.

proverbial

"Love thy neighbor as thyself"

— Treat others with the same kindness and respect you want for yourself.

He lives by the principle of loving thy neighbor.

religious/moral

"The boy/girl next door"

— Someone who is wholesome, unassuming, and familiar.

She has that classic girl-next-door look.

informal

"Keep up with the Joneses"

— Trying to match the lifestyle and possessions of one's neighbors.

They are always buying new cars just to keep up with the Joneses.

informal

"Not in my backyard (NIMBY)"

— Opposing something being built near one's home, even if it's beneficial elsewhere.

The new factory faced a lot of NIMBY opposition from the neighbors.

political/informal

"A neighbor's eye"

— The constant observation or judgment of those living nearby.

He felt the weight of the neighbor's eye on his messy lawn.

literary

"Neighborly love"

— General kindness and goodwill toward others in the community.

The town was full of neighborly love after the storm.

neutral

"Neighbor-to-neighbor"

— Direct communication or help between residents.

The campaign was conducted on a neighbor-to-neighbor basis.

neutral

"Better a neighbor nearby than a brother far away"

— Local help is often more practical than help from distant family.

When my car broke down, I realized that better a neighbor nearby than a brother far away.

proverbial

"Won't you be my neighbor?"

— An invitation to friendship and community (famous from Mr. Rogers).

He greeted the newcomer with a warm 'Won't you be my neighbor?'

cultural

Easily Confused

neighbor vs neighbour

Different spelling.

It is the British English spelling of the same word.

My British neighbour invited me for tea.

neighbor vs resident

Similar meaning.

Resident is more formal and used for anyone living in a place, not just nearby.

The residents of the building are happy.

neighbor vs local

Similar meaning.

Local refers to anyone in the area, while neighbor is specifically next door.

The locals know the best fishing spots.

neighbor vs acquaintance

Social relationship.

An acquaintance is someone you know slightly; a neighbor is someone who lives near you.

He is just an acquaintance from work.

neighbor vs friend

Social relationship.

A friend is someone you like; a neighbor is someone who lives near you.

My neighbor is also my best friend.

Sentence Patterns

My neighbor is [adjective].

My neighbor is nice.

I have a [adjective] neighbor.

I have a quiet neighbor.

My neighbor [verb] every day.

My neighbor walks his dog every day.

It is important to be [adjective] to your neighbors.

It is important to be respectful to your neighbors.

The [adjective] neighbor [verb] [adverb].

The elderly neighbor smiled warmly at the children.

Despite being neighbors, they [verb].

Despite being neighbors, they rarely interacted.

All

The neighbor's [noun] is [adjective].

The neighbor's garden is huge.

All

I talked to my neighbor about [topic].

I talked to my neighbor about the weather.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in daily conversation and media.

Common Mistakes

I live in a friendly neighbor. → I live in a friendly neighborhood.
Neighbor is a person; neighborhood is the place.
He is my neighbor at the right. → He is my neighbor to the right.
Use 'to' or 'on' when describing direction relative to you.
The neighbors dog is loud. → The neighbor's dog is loud.
You need a possessive apostrophe.
I have many neighbor. → I have many neighbors.
Neighbor is a countable noun and needs an 's' in the plural.
She is a very neighborly person. → She is very neighborly.
While 'neighborly person' is okay, 'neighborly' is already an adjective describing a person's nature.

Tips

Person vs. Place

Always remember that a neighbor is a human being. If you are talking about the area, use 'neighborhood'.

Silent Letters

The 'gh' in neighbor is silent. Don't try to pronounce it; just skip from the 'i' sound to the 'b'.

Possessives

Be careful with the apostrophe. 'Neighbor's' for one, 'neighbors'' for many.

Being Neighborly

In English-speaking cultures, being 'neighborly' is a highly valued trait. It means being helpful without being intrusive.

Specifics

Use 'next-door neighbor' to be precise. It sounds more natural than just 'the neighbor next to me'.

Fences

The idiom 'Good fences make good neighbors' is very common. Use it to talk about the importance of boundaries.

Regional Accents

In some UK accents, 'neighbour' might sound like 'nay-ba'. In the US, the 'r' is usually quite strong.

Formal Contexts

In formal writing, consider using 'resident' or 'occupant' if 'neighbor' feels too personal.

Countries

When talking about countries, 'neighbor' is a great way to describe shared borders and diplomatic relations.

Memory Aid

Think of the 'N' in Neighbor as standing for 'Next door'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'NEIGH' (like a horse nearby) and 'BOR' (someone who is BORN near you). A neighbor is someone 'born near' your home.

Visual Association

Imagine a white picket fence between two houses with two people shaking hands over it.

Word Web

house street friend fence noise help community next-door

Challenge

Try to describe three of your neighbors using at least two adjectives for each.

Word Origin

Derived from the Old English word 'neahgebur'. 'Neah' means 'near' and 'gebur' means 'dweller' or 'farmer'.

Original meaning: A person who lives or farms near another.

Germanic (Old English, related to Old High German 'nahgibur').

Cultural Context

Be careful when discussing neighbors' private lives, as privacy is highly valued in many English-speaking cultures.

In the US, 'neighbor' is often associated with the suburban ideal of the 1950s. In the UK, 'neighbour' often carries a sense of polite distance.

Mister Rogers' Neighborhood (TV Show) The 'Burbs (Movie) Neighbors (Movie)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At Home

My neighbor is home.
Talk to the neighbor.
The neighbor's dog.
Next-door neighbor.

In the City

Apartment neighbor.
Noisy neighbors.
Meet the neighbors.
Neighbors in the building.

In Geography

Neighboring country.
Neighboring state.
Neighboring town.
Our northern neighbor.

In Law/Civics

Neighbor dispute.
Neighborhood watch.
Neighborly duty.
Property neighbor.

In Science

Neighboring cells.
Neighboring atoms.
Nearest neighbor.
Neighboring points.

Conversation Starters

"Do you get along well with your neighbors?"

"Have you ever had a really noisy neighbor?"

"What is the best thing a neighbor has ever done for you?"

"Do you know the names of all your next-door neighbors?"

"How would you describe a 'perfect' neighbor?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you helped a neighbor or a neighbor helped you.

Describe the people who live in your neighborhood. What are they like?

Do you think it's important to be friends with your neighbors? Why or why not?

Imagine you have a famous person as a neighbor. Who would it be and why?

Write a story about a mysterious neighbor who just moved in next door.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Both are correct. 'Neighbor' is used in American English, while 'neighbour' is used in British, Canadian, and Australian English.

Yes, it can mean to be situated next to something. For example, 'The park neighbors the school.' However, this is less common than the noun form.

This is the person who lives in the house or apartment immediately adjacent to yours.

It is an adjective that describes someone who is kind, helpful, and friendly, like a good neighbor should be.

It is 'neighbors''. For example, 'I went to my neighbors' party' (meaning a party hosted by several neighbors).

No, a neighbor is defined by where they live. You can be friends with your neighbor, but you can also be strangers or even enemies.

This is a common expression for a neighbor who is too interested in other people's private lives and watches them too closely.

It is a country that shares a border with another country.

Usually, we use 'colleague' or 'coworker.' However, you might say 'my office neighbor' if they sit in the desk right next to yours.

In law, it is the idea that you should take reasonable care to avoid acts or omissions that you can reasonably foresee would be likely to injure your neighbor.