This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B1 Noun #34 most common 18 min read

tourists

Top 34

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips tourists in 30 Seconds

Explanation tourists in your Level:

At the A1 level, you learn that 'tourists' are people who go to different places for a holiday. They are like you when you go to the beach or a big city with your family. Tourists usually carry cameras, wear hats, and look at maps. They stay in hotels and eat in restaurants. You might see them in your city looking at old buildings or taking photos of statues. A1 learners use this word to talk about simple travel. For example, 'I see many tourists in London.' It is a plural word, which means it is about more than one person. If you talk about only one person, you say 'a tourist.' Tourists are important because they buy things and help the city. You can use this word when you talk about your summer plans or when you describe what you see in a famous place. It is a very common word that everyone knows.

At the A2 level, you can use 'tourists' to describe people visiting a place for fun. You understand that tourists are visitors who do not live in the city they are visiting. They often come from other countries (foreign tourists) or other parts of the same country (domestic tourists). You can talk about what tourists do, like 'Tourists visit museums and buy souvenirs.' You also learn that tourists can be in groups. You might say, 'A group of tourists is waiting for the bus.' At this level, you start to see how tourists affect a place. For example, 'The beach is very busy because there are many tourists.' You can also use the word in the negative: 'There aren't many tourists here in the winter.' This helps you describe the atmosphere of a place at different times of the year. It is a useful word for basic conversations about travel and holidays.

At the B1 level, you understand that 'tourists' are individuals traveling for pleasure, culture, or recreation. You can discuss the impact they have on a destination, both economically and socially. For instance, you might say, 'Tourists contribute a lot of money to the local economy, but they can also cause traffic problems.' You are familiar with common phrases like 'tourist attractions' and 'tourist information center.' You can also distinguish between different types of tourists, such as those interested in history or those looking for adventure. At this level, you can use the word to express opinions about travel trends. For example, 'I think tourists should try to learn some of the local language before they visit.' You also understand that the word can sometimes have a slightly negative tone if a place is described as 'too many tourists,' implying it is crowded or lacks authenticity. You can use 'tourists' in more complex sentences with relative clauses, like 'The tourists who visit this island usually stay for a week.'

At the B2 level, you can use 'tourists' in a variety of professional and social contexts. You understand the nuances of the word and can use it to discuss complex topics like sustainable tourism and overtourism. You might say, 'The surge in the number of tourists has put a significant strain on the city's infrastructure, leading to calls for a tourist tax.' You can also use the word to compare different travel styles, contrasting 'mass tourists' with 'independent travelers.' You are comfortable using collocations like 'influx of tourists,' 'flocks of tourists,' and 'catering to tourists.' At this level, you can analyze the motivations of tourists and how marketing influences their choices. For example, 'The government is trying to attract high-spending tourists rather than budget backpackers.' You also recognize the use of 'tourist' as an attributive noun in terms like 'tourist trap' or 'tourist hotspot,' and you can use these accurately in conversation or writing to convey a specific attitude toward a place.

At the C1 level, you have a sophisticated understanding of the term 'tourists' and its implications in sociology, economics, and environmental studies. You can discuss the 'tourist gaze'—the way tourists perceive and consume the cultures they visit—and how this can lead to the commodification of local traditions. You might use the word in sentences like, 'The influx of tourists has led to a paradoxical situation where the local culture is both preserved for display and eroded by the sheer volume of visitors.' You are adept at using the word in academic or formal writing, discussing 'tourist demographics,' 'tourist flows,' and 'the socio-economic impact of international tourists.' You can also use the word metaphorically or in more abstract discussions about modern mobility and global citizenship. Your vocabulary includes related terms like 'excursionists,' 'sojourners,' and 'transients,' and you can choose the most precise term for any given situation. You understand the subtle shift in register when moving from a neutral description to a more critical analysis of tourism's effects.

At the C2 level, you use 'tourists' with complete precision and can engage in high-level debates about the philosophy and ethics of tourism. You might explore the distinction between the 'authentic' experience sought by some travelers and the 'staged authenticity' created for tourists. You can articulate complex ideas such as, 'The presence of tourists often necessitates a performance of identity by the host community, leading to a complex negotiation of cultural values.' You are familiar with the history of the word, from the Grand Tour to the present day, and can use this context to enrich your discussions. You can analyze the discourse surrounding 'tourists' in media and literature, noting how the term is used to construct identities and power dynamics. Whether you are writing a policy paper on urban management or a philosophical essay on the nature of travel, you use 'tourists' and its synonyms with a deep awareness of their historical, social, and linguistic weight. You can effortlessly switch between different registers and use the word to convey subtle irony, critical distance, or professional objectivity.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

tourists in 30 Seconds

Tourists are individuals traveling for leisure or culture, staying temporarily in a location outside their usual environment for more than 24 hours but less than a year.
The term is a plural count noun, often used in economic contexts to describe a vital demographic of consumers who support the global travel and hospitality industries.
While often used neutrally, 'tourists' can sometimes carry a negative connotation of superficiality compared to the more adventurous or culturally immersive 'travelers' or 'explorers'.
Managing the impact of tourists is a major challenge for popular destinations, leading to discussions about sustainability, overtourism, and the preservation of local heritage and environments.

The term tourists serves as the plural noun identifying individuals who engage in the act of tourism. At its core, a tourist is a person who travels away from their habitual residence for a duration of at least twenty-four hours but less than one consecutive year. This movement is primarily motivated by leisure, recreation, holiday-making, or cultural exploration, rather than for the purpose of seeking permanent employment or residency in the destination visited. The concept of being a tourist is deeply intertwined with the modern global economy, representing a significant portion of international trade and cultural exchange. When we speak of tourists, we are often referring to the lifeblood of many coastal towns, historic cities, and natural wonders. These individuals are characterized by their temporary status; they are visitors who come to experience, consume, and appreciate the unique offerings of a location before returning to their home environment. The word carries various connotations depending on the context. In a positive economic sense, tourists are seen as essential contributors to local businesses, supporting hotels, restaurants, and museums. However, in a sociological context, the term can sometimes be used with a hint of condescension to describe people who only see the superficial aspects of a culture, often sticking to well-trodden paths and 'tourist traps' rather than seeking authentic local experiences.

Linguistic Classification: The word 'tourists' is a count noun in its plural form, derived from the French word 'tour,' meaning a circuit or a turn. It implies a circular journey—one that begins at home and ends at home.

Every summer, the narrow streets of Venice are flooded with tourists from all over the world, eager to see the historic canals.

Historically, the concept of the tourist emerged during the Enlightenment with the 'Grand Tour,' a rite of passage for young European aristocrats who traveled across the continent to gain education and cultural refinement. Today, the demographic of tourists has expanded exponentially due to the democratization of travel, the rise of the middle class in emerging economies, and the proliferation of low-cost aviation. We now distinguish between various types of tourists: domestic tourists who travel within their own country, international tourists who cross borders, and niche groups like eco-tourists, medical tourists, or dark tourists who visit sites associated with death or tragedy. The behavior of tourists is a subject of intense study in marketing and sociology, as their preferences dictate the development of infrastructure and the preservation of heritage sites. A tourist's journey is often documented through photography and social media, creating a feedback loop that influences the travel choices of others. Despite the economic benefits, the presence of tourists can lead to 'overtourism,' where the sheer volume of visitors degrades the quality of life for residents and threatens the integrity of the very attractions they came to see.

The local government is implementing new taxes to manage the environmental impact caused by the millions of tourists visiting the island annually.

Economic Impact: Tourists provide a vital source of foreign exchange and create millions of jobs globally, ranging from hospitality and transport to artisanal crafts and tour guiding.

In contemporary discourse, the word is also used metaphorically. For instance, in the world of sports or niche hobbies, a 'tourist' might be someone who participates casually without a deep commitment or understanding of the community's history and rules. However, its primary usage remains firmly rooted in the travel industry. Whether they are 'backpacking' through Southeast Asia or taking a luxury cruise in the Mediterranean, tourists share a common goal: the pursuit of experience. This pursuit drives the global movement of people and the continuous evolution of destinations as they adapt to meet the changing desires of the global traveler. Understanding the nuances of the word 'tourists' requires recognizing both the individual's desire for discovery and the collective impact of that desire on the world's social and physical landscapes.

During the off-season, the town feels deserted without the usual crowds of tourists browsing the souvenir shops.

Many tourists are now opting for sustainable travel options to minimize their carbon footprint.

Social Dynamics: The interaction between tourists and locals can lead to cultural enrichment but also to social tension if the visitors' behaviors do not align with local customs.

The museum offers guided tours in five different languages to accommodate the diverse range of tourists it attracts.

Using the word tourists correctly involves understanding its role as a plural count noun and the specific verbs and adjectives that typically accompany it. In a sentence, 'tourists' usually functions as the subject or the object, describing a group of people engaged in travel. Because it is a plural noun, it must be paired with plural verb forms (e.g., 'tourists are,' 'tourists have,' 'tourists visit'). One of the most common ways to use the word is to describe the presence or movement of people in a specific location. For example, you might say, 'The city is packed with tourists during the summer months.' Here, 'tourists' is the object of the preposition 'with,' and it provides essential information about the state of the city. Adjectives play a crucial role in specifying what kind of tourists you are discussing. Common descriptors include 'foreign,' 'domestic,' 'international,' 'budget,' 'luxury,' 'unwary,' and 'enthusiastic.' These adjectives help refine the meaning and provide a clearer picture of the demographic being described.

Verb Collocations: Common verbs used with tourists include: attract, welcome, accommodate, deter, flock, and swarm. For instance, 'The new theme park is expected to attract millions of tourists.'

The historic district was designed to be walkable, making it a favorite spot for tourists to explore on foot.

When discussing the impact of tourists, the word often appears in sentences related to economics or urban planning. You might write, 'The influx of tourists has led to a surge in local property prices.' In this context, 'influx of tourists' is a common phrase used to describe a large number of people arriving in a place. Similarly, 'tourists' can be used in the possessive form, though it is more common to use 'tourist' as an attributive noun (e.g., 'tourist attractions,' 'tourist industry'). However, if you want to emphasize the belonging to the people themselves, you would use 'tourists'': 'The tourists' complaints about the lack of public transport were heard by the council.' It is also important to consider the tone of the sentence. Using 'tourists' in a neutral or positive way is standard in travel writing, but in more critical sociological texts, it might be used to contrast with 'locals' or 'residents' to highlight cultural differences or conflicts.

Local shopkeepers often rely on the spending power of tourists to sustain their businesses throughout the year.

Prepositional Phrases: 'Tourists' is frequently followed by 'from' (origin) or 'to' (destination). Example: 'Tourists from Japan often visit the lavender fields in France.'

In more complex sentence structures, 'tourists' can be part of a participial phrase or a relative clause. For example, 'Tourists visiting the ruins are advised to wear sturdy shoes.' Here, 'visiting the ruins' is a participial phrase modifying 'tourists.' Or, 'The tourists, who had been traveling for ten hours, were relieved to finally reach their hotel.' This use of a relative clause provides additional information about the state or actions of the tourists. Furthermore, 'tourists' can be used in comparative structures: 'There are more tourists in Paris than in Lyon.' This highlights the relative popularity of different destinations. By varying the sentence structure and the accompanying vocabulary, you can convey a wide range of meanings and nuances related to the experience and impact of tourists in various settings.

The government has issued a warning to tourists regarding the potential for extreme weather conditions in the region.

It is important for tourists to respect local customs and traditions when visiting sacred sites.

Quantifiers: Use quantifiers like 'many,' 'few,' 'thousands of,' 'a crowd of,' or 'a group of' to indicate the number of tourists.

The local park was filled with tourists taking photos of the cherry blossoms.

The word tourists is ubiquitous in daily life, appearing in a wide array of professional, social, and media contexts. One of the most common places you will hear this word is in news broadcasts and financial reports. Journalists often discuss the 'number of tourists' as a metric for economic health, particularly in countries where tourism is a primary industry. You might hear a news anchor say, 'The country saw a record-breaking number of tourists this quarter, boosting the local economy by billions.' In this setting, the word is used as a cold, hard statistic, representing a demographic of consumers. Similarly, in city council meetings or urban development discussions, officials frequently talk about 'managing tourists' or 'improving infrastructure for tourists.' Here, the word is used in a planning context, often balanced against the needs of local residents. You might hear a planner argue, 'We need to create more pedestrian zones to accommodate the growing number of tourists in the city center.'

Travel Industry Contexts: In airports, train stations, and hotels, the word is used in announcements and customer service interactions. 'We welcome all tourists to our beautiful city and hope you enjoy your stay.'

The documentary highlighted the environmental challenges faced by islands that are popular with tourists.

In the realm of social media and digital content, 'tourists' is a keyword used by influencers, travel bloggers, and vloggers. You will see it in video titles like 'Top 10 Things Tourists Miss in London' or 'How to Avoid the Tourists in Rome.' In these instances, the word is used to categorize a specific audience—people who are planning a trip and want to know what to expect. There is often a subtle distinction made between 'tourists' and 'travelers' in these circles, with the latter being portrayed as more savvy or adventurous. You might hear a vlogger say, 'Most tourists just stay around the main square, but if you walk two blocks over, you'll find the real local gems.' This usage reflects a cultural desire to transcend the typical tourist experience. Additionally, in the service industry—restaurants, shops, and tour agencies—staff use the word constantly to describe their clientele. A waiter might remark to a colleague, 'The tourists are out in full force today,' referring to the busy nature of the shift.

The radio host interviewed a local resident who complained that tourists were making it impossible to find parking.

Academic and Scientific Use: In sociology and geography, researchers study 'tourist behavior' and 'tourist flows' to understand how people move and interact with different environments.

The word also appears in literature and film, often to set a scene or highlight a character's fish-out-of-water status. A novelist might describe a character as 'blending in with the tourists' to hide from someone, or a filmmaker might use a wide shot of a crowded landmark to establish a setting as a major world city. In casual conversation, people use the word to describe their own experiences or to comment on the state of a place. 'We were just tourists for the weekend,' someone might say, indicating a short, leisure-focused trip. Or, 'I avoid that beach in July; it's just too many tourists.' This everyday usage shows how the concept of the tourist is a fundamental part of our understanding of modern life and mobility. Whether used as a demographic label, an economic indicator, or a social category, 'tourists' is a word that captures the essence of our globalized, mobile world.

The podcast discussed how digital nomads are different from traditional tourists because they work while they travel.

The security briefing reminded the staff to be extra vigilant when the city is full of tourists during the festival.

Educational Context: In geography classes, students learn about the 'impact of tourists' on coral reefs and other fragile ecosystems.

The tour guide spoke loudly to ensure all the tourists in the back of the group could hear the history of the castle.

While the word tourists seems straightforward, learners and even native speakers often make several common errors in its usage. One of the most frequent mistakes is confusing the noun 'tourists' with the noun 'tourism.' 'Tourism' refers to the industry, the activity, or the general phenomenon of people traveling for pleasure. 'Tourists' refers to the specific people who are doing the traveling. For example, it is incorrect to say, 'The tourism are visiting the museum.' The correct sentence would be, 'The tourists are visiting the museum.' Conversely, you wouldn't say, 'The tourists is a major part of the economy'; you should say, 'Tourism is a major part of the economy.' Another common error involves the use of the adjective 'touristic.' While 'touristic' is a valid word, it is often used incorrectly by non-native speakers who translate it directly from languages like French ('touristique') or Spanish ('turístico'). In English, 'touristic' can sound a bit formal or unnatural. It is much more common to use 'tourist' as an attributive noun, such as 'tourist attraction,' 'tourist area,' or 'tourist season.'

Pluralization Pitfalls: Some learners forget that 'tourists' is the plural form and try to use 'tourist' to describe a group. Always remember: one tourist, two tourists.

Incorrect: There are many tourist in the city today. Correct: There are many tourists in the city today.

Another nuance that often leads to mistakes is the distinction between 'tourists' and 'travelers.' While they can be synonyms, they often carry different connotations. Using 'tourists' in a context where someone wants to be seen as an adventurous explorer can be seen as a slight. For example, if you are writing a blog about off-the-beaten-path trekking, you might want to refer to your audience as 'travelers' rather than 'tourists' to appeal to their sense of adventure. Furthermore, there is a common mistake in the use of articles. Because 'tourists' is a plural count noun, it does not take the indefinite article 'a' or 'an.' You can say 'the tourists' (referring to a specific group) or just 'tourists' (referring to tourists in general). For example, 'Tourists often visit the Eiffel Tower' is a general statement, while 'The tourists we met yesterday were from Brazil' refers to a specific group.

Many people make the mistake of saying 'touristic places' when 'tourist spots' or 'tourist attractions' sounds much more natural to native speakers.

Spelling Errors: Watch out for the double 'r' or missing 'u'. It is 'tourists,' not 'torists' or 'tourrists.'

Finally, be careful with the word 'touristy.' While it is a common informal adjective used to describe a place that is overcrowded with tourists or designed specifically for them, it often has a negative connotation. If you describe a restaurant as 'very touristy,' you are implying that it might be overpriced and lack authenticity. Using this word in a formal report might be inappropriate. Instead, you could use phrases like 'popular with tourists' or 'geared towards international visitors.' Understanding these subtle differences in meaning and register will help you use the word 'tourists' and its related forms more accurately and effectively in your writing and speech. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can ensure that your communication is clear, professional, and natural-sounding.

The guide warned us that the market can be a bit touristy, so we should be careful with our belongings.

The study focused on the behavior of tourists in urban environments versus rural settings.

Agreement Errors: Ensure your pronouns match. 'The tourists left *their* luggage,' not 'The tourists left *his* luggage.'

Local residents often have a love-hate relationship with the tourists who visit their town.

The word tourists is part of a rich semantic field related to travel and movement. Depending on the context, several alternatives can be used to provide more precision or a different tone. One of the most common synonyms is 'travelers.' While 'tourists' often implies a focus on leisure and pre-packaged experiences, 'travelers' suggests a more active, perhaps more independent, engagement with the destination. A 'traveler' might be someone on a long-term journey, someone traveling for work, or someone seeking a deeper cultural immersion. Another frequently used term is 'visitors.' This is a broader, more neutral word that can include anyone who is not a local resident, including people visiting friends and relatives (often abbreviated as VFR in the industry), business travelers, or people attending a conference. In official contexts, such as government reports or museum statistics, 'visitors' is often preferred because it is more inclusive.

Comparison: Tourists vs. Travelers: 'Tourists' often follow a set itinerary and visit famous landmarks. 'Travelers' might seek out less-known areas and stay for longer periods to understand the local culture.

While many tourists stick to the main attractions, more adventurous travelers often head into the mountains.

For more specific types of tourists, you can use words like 'sightseers,' 'vacationers,' or 'holidaymakers.' 'Sightseers' specifically refers to people who are visiting famous places or landmarks, often on a short trip. 'Vacationers' (more common in American English) and 'holidaymakers' (more common in British English) emphasize the fact that the people are on a break from work or school. If the tourists are traveling on a very tight budget, they might be called 'backpackers.' This term carries connotations of youth, independence, and staying in hostels. On the other end of the spectrum, 'luxury travelers' or 'jet-setters' refers to those who seek high-end, exclusive experiences. In the context of nature and the environment, 'eco-tourists' are those who travel specifically to see natural areas in a way that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.

The city has seen a rise in sightseers who come just for the day to see the new art installation.

Comparison: Tourists vs. Sightseers: 'Tourists' is a general term for anyone on holiday. 'Sightseers' focuses specifically on the activity of looking at famous or interesting things.

Other interesting alternatives include 'globetrotters,' which implies someone who travels frequently and widely across the world, and 'voyagers,' which is a more poetic or old-fashioned term for people on a long journey, especially by sea. In some contexts, you might hear the term 'outsiders' or 'strangers,' though these are much less specific and can sometimes sound unwelcoming. 'Day-trippers' is a useful term for people who visit a place for only one day and do not stay overnight. When discussing the impact of people on a place, 'transients' might be used to describe a population that is constantly changing, including tourists. By choosing the right word from this selection, you can convey a much more precise meaning and show a deeper understanding of the different ways people experience travel and the different roles they play in the places they visit.

The island is a haven for holidaymakers seeking sun, sand, and relaxation.

The national park is trying to attract more eco-tourists who are interested in wildlife conservation.

Comparison: Tourists vs. Visitors: 'Visitors' is the most neutral and formal term. It is used in official data to count everyone who enters a site or city, regardless of their reason for being there.

The local shops are busy with day-trippers who arrive on the morning train and leave by sunset.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The term 'tourist' first appeared in English in the late 18th century. Before that, people who traveled for pleasure were often called 'travelers' or 'voyagers.' The 'Grand Tour' of Europe was the specific activity that popularized the term.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈtʊə.rɪsts/

US /ˈtʊr.ɪsts/

The primary stress is on the first syllable: TOUR-ists.

Rhymes With

purists jurists florists (near rhyme) chorists terrorists (near rhyme) theorists (near rhyme) satirists (near rhyme) humorists (near rhyme)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'tor-ists' (common in some UK accents but can be confusing).
Dropping the 't' in the 'sts' cluster, making it sound like 'touris'.
Adding an extra syllable like 'tour-i-ists'.
Confusing the vowel sound with 'tower'.
Mispunctuating the plural possessive as 'tourist's' instead of 'tourists''.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word itself is easy, but it often appears in complex economic or sociological texts.

Writing 2/5

Simple to use, but watch out for the plural 's' and the 'sts' spelling.

Speaking 3/5

The 'sts' cluster at the end can be difficult for some learners to pronounce clearly.

Listening 2/5

Easily recognizable in most contexts due to its high frequency.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

travel visit place people holiday

Learn Next

tourism destination itinerary accommodation hospitality

Advanced

overtourism commodification sustainability infrastructure demographics

Grammar to Know

Plural Noun-Verb Agreement

The tourists *are* (not is) waiting for the bus.

Use of 'Many' vs 'Much'

There are *many* (not much) tourists in the square.

Possessive Plural

The *tourists'* (not tourist's) bags were all the same color.

Attributive Nouns

A *tourist* attraction (the noun 'tourist' acts like an adjective and stays singular).

Relative Clauses with People

The tourists *who* (not which) visit the ruins are usually very respectful.

Examples by Level

The tourists are taking photos of the big clock.

Les touristes prennent des photos de la grande horloge.

Plural subject 'tourists' takes plural verb 'are taking'.

Many tourists visit the beach in summer.

Beaucoup de touristes visitent la plage en été.

Use 'many' with plural count nouns like 'tourists'.

The tourists are happy to see the mountains.

Les touristes sont heureux de voir les montagnes.

Adjective 'happy' describes the state of the tourists.

Where are the tourists from?

D'où viennent les touristes ?

Question form using 'where' and 'are'.

The tourists buy postcards in the shop.

Les touristes achètent des cartes postales dans la boutique.

Simple present tense for a regular action.

I see five tourists on the bus.

Je vois cinq touristes dans le bus.

Number 'five' followed by the plural 'tourists'.

The tourists wear hats because it is sunny.

Les touristes portent des chapeaux parce qu'il fait beau.

Conjunction 'because' explains the reason.

Are there any tourists in your town?

Y a-t-il des touristes dans votre ville ?

Use 'any' in questions with plural nouns.

The tourists are waiting for the tour guide to arrive.

Les touristes attendent que le guide touristique arrive.

Present continuous tense 'are waiting'.

Foreign tourists often find the local food very spicy.

Les touristes étrangers trouvent souvent la nourriture locale très épicée.

Adjective 'foreign' specifies the type of tourists.

The city center is always full of tourists during the holidays.

Le centre-ville est toujours plein de touristes pendant les vacances.

Phrase 'full of' followed by the plural noun.

Most tourists stay in hotels near the airport.

La plupart des touristes séjournent dans des hôtels près de l'aéroport.

Quantifier 'most' used with plural 'tourists'.

The tourists enjoyed the boat trip on the river.

Les touristes ont apprécié la promenade en bateau sur la rivière.

Past simple tense 'enjoyed'.

Local people are usually very friendly to tourists.

Les habitants sont généralement très sympathiques avec les touristes.

Preposition 'to' connects 'friendly' and 'tourists'.

The tourists need a map to find the museum.

Les touristes ont besoin d'une carte pour trouver le musée.

Verb 'need' followed by the object 'a map'.

How many tourists visit this castle every year?

Combien de touristes visitent ce château chaque année ?

Question 'how many' used for countable nouns.

The influx of tourists has helped many small businesses survive.

L'afflux de touristes a aidé de nombreuses petites entreprises à survivre.

Noun phrase 'influx of tourists' as the subject.

Some tourists prefer to explore the city without a guide.

Certains touristes préfèrent explorer la ville sans guide.

Verb 'prefer' followed by an infinitive phrase.

The government is trying to attract more eco-tourists to the national park.

Le gouvernement essaie d'attirer plus d'éco-touristes dans le parc national.

Compound noun 'eco-tourists' for a specific type.

Tourists are advised to keep their valuables in the hotel safe.

Il est conseillé aux touristes de garder leurs objets de valeur dans le coffre-fort de l'hôtel.

Passive voice 'are advised' for formal instructions.

The local museum offers special discounts for groups of tourists.

Le musée local propose des réductions spéciales pour les groupes de touristes.

Prepositional phrase 'for groups of tourists'.

Many tourists are now using apps to book their accommodation.

De nombreux touristes utilisent désormais des applications pour réserver leur hébergement.

Present continuous 'are using' for a current trend.

The tourists were impressed by the beauty of the ancient ruins.

Les touristes ont été impressionnés par la beauté des ruines antiques.

Past participle 'impressed' as an adjective.

It can be difficult for tourists to navigate the public transport system.

Il peut être difficile pour les touristes de s'orienter dans le système de transport public.

Introductory 'it' followed by an adjective and 'for' phrase.

The city is struggling to cope with the sheer volume of tourists visiting each year.

La ville a du mal à faire face au volume impressionnant de touristes qui la visitent chaque année.

Phrase 'sheer volume of' emphasizes the large number.

Responsible tourists should always respect the local customs and traditions.

Les touristes responsables devraient toujours respecter les coutumes et traditions locales.

Modal verb 'should' for giving advice or recommendations.

The local economy is heavily dependent on the spending power of international tourists.

L'économie locale est fortement dépendante du pouvoir d'achat des touristes internationaux.

Adverb 'heavily' modifying the adjective 'dependent'.

Many tourists are deterred by the high cost of flights to the remote island.

De nombreux touristes sont découragés par le coût élevé des vols vers l'île isolée.

Passive voice 'are deterred' followed by the agent 'by'.

The documentary examines how tourists impact the fragile ecosystems of the Galapagos.

Le documentaire examine comment les touristes impactent les écosystèmes fragiles des Galapagos.

Verb 'impact' used to show the effect on the environment.

Some residents feel that the city has become a playground for wealthy tourists.

Certains habitants ont le sentiment que la ville est devenue un terrain de jeu pour les touristes fortunés.

Metaphorical use of 'playground' to describe the city's state.

The new regulations aim to balance the needs of tourists with those of the local community.

Les nouvelles réglementations visent à équilibrer les besoins des touristes avec ceux de la communauté locale.

Verb 'aim' followed by an infinitive of purpose.

Tourists flock to the region every autumn to see the changing colors of the leaves.

Les touristes affluent dans la région chaque automne pour voir les couleurs changeantes des feuilles.

Verb 'flock' describes a large group moving together.

The commodification of culture often occurs in areas where tourists are the primary audience.

La marchandisation de la culture se produit souvent dans les zones où les touristes sont le public principal.

Abstract noun 'commodification' related to the tourist industry.

Sociologists study the 'tourist gaze' to understand how visitors perceive foreign landscapes.

Les sociologues étudient le « regard du touriste » pour comprendre comment les visiteurs perçoivent les paysages étrangers.

Academic term 'tourist gaze' in quotes.

The influx of tourists can lead to 'staged authenticity,' where traditions are performed for show.

L'afflux de touristes peut conduire à une « authenticité mise en scène », où les traditions sont exécutées pour le spectacle.

Term 'staged authenticity' used to describe a sociological phenomenon.

Many destinations are now implementing measures to mitigate the negative externalities caused by tourists.

De nombreuses destinations mettent désormais en œuvre des mesures pour atténuer les externalités négatives causées par les touristes.

Economic term 'negative externalities' used in a formal context.

The tension between tourists and locals often stems from a lack of mutual cultural understanding.

La tension entre touristes et habitants provient souvent d'un manque de compréhension culturelle mutuelle.

Verb 'stems from' to indicate the origin of a problem.

Elite tourists often seek out 'untouched' locations, inadvertently paving the way for mass tourism.

Les touristes d'élite recherchent souvent des lieux « intacts », ouvrant par inadvertance la voie au tourisme de masse.

Adverb 'inadvertently' describing the unintended consequence.

The government's strategy is to pivot away from mass tourists and focus on high-yield visitors.

La stratégie du gouvernement est de s'éloigner des touristes de masse et de se concentrer sur les visiteurs à haut rendement.

Phrasal verb 'pivot away from' used in a strategic context.

Tourists' perceptions of safety can be drastically altered by a single negative media report.

La perception de la sécurité par les touristes peut être radicalement modifiée par un seul reportage médiatique négatif.

Possessive plural 'tourists'' followed by the noun 'perceptions'.

The proliferation of digital platforms has fundamentally transformed the way tourists consume space and place.

La prolifération des plateformes numériques a fondamentalement transformé la manière dont les touristes consomment l'espace et le lieu.

Complex sentence structure with abstract nouns and adverbs.

Overtourism has become a contentious issue, as cities grapple with the paradox of needing tourists while resenting their presence.

Le surtourisme est devenu un problème litigieux, car les villes sont aux prises avec le paradoxe d'avoir besoin de touristes tout en déplorant leur présence.

Use of 'grapple with' and 'paradox' to describe a complex social situation.

The aestheticization of poverty for the benefit of 'slum tourists' raises profound ethical questions.

L'esthétisation de la pauvreté au profit des « touristes des bidonvilles » soulève de profondes questions éthiques.

Term 'slum tourists' used in a critical, academic context.

Tourists are often complicit in the environmental degradation of the very sites they travel to admire.

Les touristes sont souvent complices de la dégradation environnementale des sites mêmes qu'ils voyagent pour admirer.

Adjective 'complicit' used to show shared responsibility.

The 'post-tourist' is characterized by a self-aware and ironic engagement with the tourist experience.

Le « post-touriste » se caractérise par un engagement conscient et ironique vis-à-vis de l'expérience touristique.

Theoretical term 'post-tourist' used to describe a modern identity.

The sheer ubiquity of tourists in global heritage sites has led to a sense of 'placelessness' in modern travel.

L'ubiquité même des touristes dans les sites du patrimoine mondial a conduit à un sentiment de « non-lieu » dans les voyages modernes.

Noun 'placelessness' to describe a lack of unique character.

National identities are often curated and packaged into digestible narratives for the consumption of international tourists.

Les identités nationales sont souvent organisées et présentées sous forme de récits digestes pour la consommation des touristes internationaux.

Passive voice 'are curated and packaged' to show external influence.

The dialectic between the desire for discovery and the reality of mass tourism remains a central theme in travel literature.

La dialectique entre le désir de découverte et la réalité du tourisme de masse reste un thème central de la littérature de voyage.

Philosophical term 'dialectic' used to describe a conflict of ideas.

Common Collocations

foreign tourists

domestic tourists

attract tourists

flock of tourists

influx of tourists

mass tourists

budget tourists

unwary tourists

accommodate tourists

swarm of tourists

Common Phrases

tourist attraction

— A place of interest that tourists visit, typically for its inherent or an exhibited cultural value.

The Eiffel Tower is the most famous tourist attraction in Paris.

tourist trap

— An establishment that attracts many tourists and charges high prices for low-quality goods or services.

That restaurant near the square is a total tourist trap; the food is terrible and expensive.

tourist information center

— An office where tourists can get information about the local area, maps, and help with bookings.

We went to the tourist information center to find out about the bus schedule.

tourist season

— The time of year when the most people visit a particular place.

Prices for hotels are much higher during the peak tourist season.

tourist hotspot

— A place that is very popular with tourists.

This coastal town has become a major tourist hotspot in recent years.

tourist board

— An official organization that encourages people to visit a particular country or area.

The national tourist board launched a new advertising campaign to attract visitors.

tourist visa

— A document that allows a person to enter a country for the purpose of tourism.

You need to apply for a tourist visa at least a month before your trip.

tourist industry

— The business of providing services such as transport, places to stay, or entertainment for people who are on holiday.

The tourist industry is the main source of income for many islands.

tourist map

— A map designed specifically for tourists, showing landmarks and points of interest.

We picked up a free tourist map at the airport.

tourist class

— The cheapest class of travel on an aircraft or ship (also known as economy class).

We usually fly tourist class to save money on our holidays.

Often Confused With

tourists vs tourism

'Tourism' is the industry or activity; 'tourists' are the people. You can't say 'The tourism are here.'

tourists vs travelers

'Travelers' is often used to imply a more serious or adventurous journey, while 'tourists' implies leisure.

tourists vs touristic

'Touristic' is an adjective, but 'tourist' is more common as an attributive noun (e.g., 'tourist spot').

Idioms & Expressions

"off the beaten track"

— In a place where few people go, far from any main roads or towns. Often used by tourists seeking authenticity.

We found a tiny restaurant off the beaten track that served the best local food.

informal

"to do the sights"

— To visit the famous or interesting places in a city or area.

We spent the whole day doing the sights in Rome.

informal

"a home away from home"

— A place where you feel as comfortable as you do in your own home, often used to describe a good hotel or rental.

The little cottage we rented was a real home away from home.

neutral

"to travel light"

— To travel with very little luggage.

I always try to travel light so I don't have to check any bags.

neutral

"to live out of a suitcase"

— To stay in several different places for only a short time, with your belongings remaining in your luggage.

After three weeks of touring, I'm tired of living out of a suitcase.

informal

"to hit the road"

— To begin a journey.

We need to hit the road early if we want to beat the traffic.

informal

"to get itchy feet"

— To have a strong desire to travel or to move to a new place.

Whenever I see photos of the mountains, I start to get itchy feet.

informal

"to watch the world go by"

— To sit and look at people as they walk past, a favorite activity for tourists in cafes.

We spent the afternoon at a sidewalk cafe, just watching the world go by.

neutral

"to make a pit stop"

— To stop briefly during a journey for food, fuel, or a rest.

We made a quick pit stop at a gas station to get some snacks.

informal

"to take the scenic route"

— To choose a longer way to a destination because it is more beautiful or interesting.

We decided to take the scenic route through the forest instead of the highway.

neutral

Easily Confused

tourists vs tourism

Both relate to travel.

Tourism is the abstract concept or industry. Tourists are the concrete people performing the action.

Tourism is growing, so we see more tourists.

tourists vs travelers

They both describe people who move from place to place.

Travelers is a broader term that includes business people and explorers. Tourists specifically travel for pleasure.

All tourists are travelers, but not all travelers are tourists.

tourists vs visitors

Both describe people visiting a place.

Visitors is more neutral and includes people visiting family or attending meetings. Tourists is specific to leisure.

The hospital has many visitors, but the beach has many tourists.

tourists vs sightseers

Both visit famous places.

Sightseers is more specific to the act of looking at things. Tourists is a general term for the whole holiday experience.

The sightseers were busy looking at the statue.

tourists vs excursionists

Both are visitors.

Excursionists do not stay overnight. Tourists stay for at least one night.

The cruise passengers are excursionists, not tourists, as they sleep on the ship.

Sentence Patterns

There are [number] tourists.

There are ten tourists.

Tourists like to [verb].

Tourists like to take photos.

The [place] is popular with tourists.

The museum is popular with tourists.

Despite the number of tourists, [clause].

Despite the number of tourists, the park remains clean.

The influx of tourists has led to [noun phrase].

The influx of tourists has led to significant cultural shifts.

The paradox of [noun] lies in the behavior of tourists.

The paradox of preservation lies in the behavior of tourists.

Tourists are advised to [verb].

Tourists are advised to carry water.

Catering to the needs of tourists requires [noun].

Catering to the needs of tourists requires careful planning.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in travel, news, and daily conversation.

Common Mistakes

The tourism are coming to our city. → The tourists are coming to our city.
Tourism is the industry; tourists are the people. You cannot use 'tourism' to refer to individuals.
I saw many tourist in London. → I saw many tourists in London.
After 'many,' you must use the plural form of the noun.
This is a very touristic place. → This is a very touristy place. / This is a popular tourist spot.
While 'touristic' is a word, 'touristy' is more common in informal English, and 'tourist spot' is better in neutral English.
The tourists luggage is lost. → The tourists' luggage is lost.
For a plural possessive, the apostrophe goes after the 's'.
He is a tourists. → He is a tourist.
Use the singular form 'tourist' when referring to only one person.

Tips

Plural Agreement

Always make sure your verbs match the plural 'tourists.' Use 'are,' 'were,' 'have,' and 'do.' For example, 'The tourists have arrived,' not 'The tourists has arrived.'

Use 'Visitors' for Variety

If you find yourself using the word 'tourists' too much in a piece of writing, try switching to 'visitors' or 'travelers' to keep your text interesting and professional.

Avoid 'Touristic'

While 'touristic' is a real word, it often sounds unnatural to native speakers. Use 'tourist' as a descriptor instead, like 'tourist areas' or 'tourist spots.'

The 'STS' Cluster

To master the pronunciation, practice saying 'missed' then 'mists,' then 'tourist' then 'tourists.' Clear pronunciation of the final 's' is important for being understood.

Positive vs. Negative

Be mindful of the context. In a business report, 'tourists' is positive. In a local resident's complaint about traffic, it might be negative. Choose your tone based on your audience.

Double Check the 'U'

Many learners forget the 'u' in 'tourists.' Remember that it comes from the word 'tour.' Think of the 'u' as a little cup that tourists might drink from on holiday!

Collocations Matter

Use strong collocations like 'attract tourists' or 'cater to tourists.' This will make your English sound more natural and fluent to native speakers.

Respect Local Views

When traveling, remember that the word 'tourists' can sometimes be a label that separates you from the locals. Try to be a 'responsible tourist' by respecting local customs.

Identify the Type

When you hear 'tourists' in the news, listen for adjectives like 'foreign' or 'domestic' to understand exactly which group of people is being discussed.

Collective Nouns

You can use collective nouns like 'a group of tourists,' 'a crowd of tourists,' or even 'a busload of tourists' to give a clearer picture of the number of people.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'tour' as a 'turn' around a city. Tourists are the people taking that turn. They 'tour' the 'ists' (the interesting sites).

Visual Association

Imagine a group of people wearing bright shirts and hats, holding cameras and looking up at a tall building like the Eiffel Tower.

Word Web

travel hotel camera map guide souvenir holiday airport

Challenge

Try to write three sentences about a famous place in your country using the word 'tourists' in each one. For example: 'Many tourists visit the Taj Mahal every day.'

Word Origin

The word 'tourist' comes from the noun 'tour,' which was borrowed from the Old French 'tour' (a turn, a circuit, a lathe). This in turn derived from the Latin 'tornus' (a lathe), which came from the Greek 'tornos' (a tool for drawing a circle).

Original meaning: The word originally referred to someone who makes a 'tour' or a circular journey, especially for pleasure or education.

Indo-European (Latin/Greek roots via French).

Cultural Context

Be aware that calling someone a 'tourist' can sometimes be seen as an insult if you are implying they are being superficial or disrespectful to local culture.

In the UK and US, 'tourists' are often associated with summer holidays and major landmarks like the Statue of Liberty or the Tower of London.

The movie 'The Tourist' starring Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie. The song 'The Tourist' by Radiohead. The travel book 'The Accidental Tourist' by Anne Tyler.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a Museum

Tourists are not allowed to use flash.
A group of tourists is entering the gallery.
We offer audio guides for tourists.
The museum is a top choice for tourists.

In a City Council Meeting

We need to manage the flow of tourists.
The influx of tourists is straining our resources.
We should implement a tourist tax.
Tourists are vital for our local economy.

In a Travel Agency

We help tourists plan their perfect trip.
Many tourists book their tours in advance.
We cater to both luxury and budget tourists.
Tourists often ask for recommendations.

At an Airport

Welcome to all our arriving tourists.
Tourists must present their visas at immigration.
The airport is the first point of contact for tourists.
We have a dedicated information desk for tourists.

On Social Media

Avoid the tourists by visiting early.
This spot is a favorite among tourists.
How to travel like a local, not a tourist.
The best places for tourists to take photos.

Conversation Starters

"Do you think there are too many tourists in your city?"

"What are the most popular places for tourists to visit in your country?"

"How do you feel when you are a tourist in another country?"

"What is the best way for tourists to learn about a new culture?"

"Do you prefer to visit places with many tourists or quiet, hidden spots?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time when you were one of the many tourists visiting a famous landmark. How did it feel?

Write about the impact of tourists on your hometown. Is it mostly positive or negative?

If you were a tour guide, what would you tell tourists about the history of your favorite place?

Discuss the pros and cons of being a tourist versus being a traveler.

Imagine a world without tourists. How would the economy and culture of your country change?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, 'tourists' is the plural form of 'tourist.' Use 'tourist' for one person and 'tourists' for two or more. For example, 'A tourist is lost' vs. 'Many tourists are lost.'

In general usage, a tourist is someone who travels for leisure, often following a set plan. A traveler is a broader term that can imply a more adventurous, independent, or long-term journey. Some people prefer 'traveler' because it sounds more serious.

No, you should use the singular 'tourist' as an attributive noun. For example, say 'tourist attraction' or 'tourist information,' not 'tourists attraction.' The singular form acts as the descriptor.

It's not a 'bad' word, but it is informal and often has a negative connotation. If you call a place 'touristy,' you usually mean it's too crowded, overpriced, or lacks local character. Use it carefully.

It can be tricky! Try to say the 's,' then a quick 't,' then another 's.' It sounds like the end of the word 'tests' or 'costs.' Many people find it easier to slow down when saying it.

Overtourism is a term used when a place has too many tourists, causing problems for the local people and the environment. It's a common topic in news reports about cities like Venice or Amsterdam.

Technically, yes, in international statistics. Anyone who travels away from home for less than a year for reasons other than working for a local employer is often counted as a tourist, even if they are there for a meeting.

Domestic tourists are people who travel for pleasure within their own country. For example, if someone from New York goes on holiday to Florida, they are a domestic tourist.

A tourist trap is a place, like a shop or restaurant, that is designed to get as much money as possible from tourists by charging high prices for things that aren't very good.

Tourism is important because tourists spend money on hotels, food, and transport, which creates jobs and helps the economy of the place they are visiting. It also helps people learn about different cultures.