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B1 Noun (Plural) #42 mais comum 14 min de leitura

hills

Top 42

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas hills em 30 segundos

Explicação hills in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'hills' is a simple word used to describe the world around us. Think of a hill as a 'big bump' on the ground. It is higher than the flat grass but not as high as a mountain. You can walk up a hill and run down a hill. In A1, we use 'hills' to talk about nature. For example, 'The hills are green.' We also use it to talk about where people live. 'My house is in the hills.' It is important to remember that 'hills' is the plural form, which means more than one. If there is only one, we say 'hill.' A1 learners should focus on simple sentences using 'hills' with colors and basic actions like walking or seeing. The word helps you describe a picture of a park or a farm. It is a friendly word that makes us think of playing outside or looking at a nice view. You don't need to worry about the exact height; just know that a hill is smaller than a mountain.

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At the A2 level, you can start using 'hills' with more descriptive words and prepositions. You might describe hills as 'small' or 'big,' and you can use prepositions like 'behind,' 'near,' or 'between.' For example, 'The sun is going down behind the hills.' This helps you create a better picture in your listener's mind. You can also talk about activities you do in the hills, such as hiking or having a picnic. At this level, it is useful to know the difference between a hill and a mountain. A mountain is very high and often has snow or rocks on top, while a hill is lower and usually has grass or trees. You might also hear the word 'hills' in travel contexts, like 'We visited the hills of Scotland.' This shows that 'hills' can refer to a whole area, not just one specific bump in the ground. Learning to use 'hills' in the plural helps you describe landscapes more naturally.

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At the B1 level, 'hills' becomes a more versatile word used in a variety of contexts. You should be comfortable using adjectives like 'rolling,' 'steep,' or 'gentle' to describe the shape of the hills. For example, 'The rolling hills of the countryside were covered in wildflowers.' You can also use 'hills' in more complex sentence structures, such as 'The road winds through the hills, making the journey quite slow.' This level also introduces common idioms and phrases. You might hear someone say they are 'over the hill,' which is a funny way of saying they are getting old. Or you might hear 'head for the hills,' which means to run away from a problem. B1 learners should also notice how 'hills' is used in specific names of places, like 'The Hollywood Hills.' Understanding these cultural references and idiomatic uses makes your English sound more advanced and natural. You are moving beyond just describing nature to using the word as part of everyday expressions.

At the B2 level, you can use 'hills' with greater precision and in more formal or literary contexts. You might use the word to discuss geography, urban planning, or even military history. For instance, you could explain how a city's topography, with its many hills, affects its public transportation system. You should also be able to use more sophisticated synonyms like 'uplands,' 'ridges,' or 'foothills' when appropriate. For example, 'The foothills of the Andes provide a unique climate for agriculture.' At this level, you can analyze the metaphorical use of 'hills' in literature or speeches. A 'hill to die on' is a common expression meaning an issue that someone is willing to fight for at all costs. You can also use 'hills' to describe gradients in technical contexts, such as 'The car's engine struggled with the steep hills of the mountain pass.' Your ability to choose between 'hills' and its synonyms based on the desired tone and detail is a key marker of B2 proficiency.

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At the C1 level, your use of 'hills' and related terminology should be nuanced and contextually rich. You can use the word to describe complex geological processes or to create evocative imagery in creative writing. You might discuss the 'undulating hills' to evoke a sense of rhythm and movement in a landscape. You should also be aware of regional variations in the word's usage, such as 'fells' in Northern England or 'downs' in Southern England. In academic or professional contexts, you might use 'hills' to discuss environmental issues like 'hillslope erosion' or 'habitat fragmentation in hilly regions.' You can also use the word in sophisticated metaphors, such as 'the hills and valleys of a person's career,' to describe the ups and downs of life. Your understanding of the word should include its historical and cultural connotations, such as the strategic importance of 'the high ground' in warfare. At C1, 'hills' is not just a geographical term but a tool for precise and expressive communication.

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At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of the word 'hills' and its entire semantic field. You can use it with total flexibility, from the most technical scientific descriptions to the most delicate poetic nuances. You might use 'hills' to explore the relationship between topography and human psychology, or to critique the way landscapes are represented in art and media. You are comfortable with rare and archaic terms related to hills, such as 'hummock,' 'knap,' or 'barrow.' Your use of idioms involving 'hills' is effortless and perfectly timed. You can discuss the etymology of the word and its cognates in other Germanic languages. In a professional capacity, you might use 'hills' in the context of advanced geomorphology or civil engineering. Whether you are writing a PhD thesis on landform evolution or a novel set in a rugged landscape, your use of 'hills' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You understand the subtle differences in meaning that 'hills' carries across different English-speaking cultures and historical periods.

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

hills em 30 segundos

Hills are natural elevations smaller than mountains, often rounded and covered in grass.
They are used in geography to describe terrain and in idioms like 'over the hill'.
Hills are common sites for hiking, farming, and building scenic homes or cities.
The word is a plural countable noun, frequently paired with adjectives like 'rolling' or 'steep'.

The word hills refers to elevated landforms that rise above the surrounding terrain. While they share characteristics with mountains, hills are distinguished by their lower altitude and generally gentler slopes. In geographical terms, a hill is often defined as being less than 600 meters (approximately 2,000 feet) in height, though this definition varies by region. People use the word 'hills' to describe everything from the small, grassy mounds in a local park to the vast, rolling landscapes of the countryside. The term evokes a sense of natural beauty, moderate physical challenge, and a vantage point from which one can observe the world below. It is a fundamental part of our topographical vocabulary, used by hikers, urban planners, and poets alike to categorize the undulations of the Earth's crust.

Geological Context: Hills can be formed by various geological processes, including erosion, the movement of glaciers, or the gradual buildup of rock and soil through tectonic activity. Unlike the jagged, rocky peaks of young mountains, hills often have rounded tops due to millions of years of weathering by wind and rain.

The children spent the entire afternoon running up and down the grassy hills behind their farmhouse.

In everyday conversation, 'hills' is frequently used to set a scene. If someone says they live 'in the hills,' it implies a location that is somewhat removed from the flat, busy city center, often suggesting a more scenic or affluent neighborhood. The word also carries a psychological weight; standing atop a hill provides a 'birds-eye view,' which is often used as a metaphor for gaining perspective on a difficult situation. Furthermore, the plural form 'hills' often refers to a specific range or region, such as the Black Hills of South Dakota or the Hollywood Hills in California. These proper nouns elevate the generic term into a specific cultural and geographic identity.

Cultural Significance: Many famous cities are built on hills. Rome is famously known as the 'City of Seven Hills,' and San Francisco is renowned for its incredibly steep streets that traverse its many hills. This topography shapes the architecture, transportation, and even the fitness levels of the residents.

From the summit of the hills, we could see the city lights twinkling in the distance like a carpet of diamonds.

The word is also essential in agricultural contexts. Hills provide drainage for crops like grapes, which is why many of the world's finest vineyards are located on hillsides. The orientation of the hills toward the sun (aspect) determines the microclimate, affecting everything from the temperature to the amount of rainfall the land receives. Thus, 'hills' is not just a word for a bump in the ground; it is a word that encompasses ecology, economy, and aesthetics. Whether you are talking about a 'hill of beans' (something of little value) or 'heading for the hills' (fleeing from trouble), the concept of the hill is deeply embedded in the English language and the human experience of navigating the physical world.

The hikers were exhausted after climbing three consecutive hills under the midday sun.

Ecological Role: Hills create diverse habitats. The windward side might be lush and green, while the leeward side remains dry. This variety allows different species of plants and animals to thrive in close proximity.

Wildflowers covered the hills in a vibrant purple hue during the early spring months.

The ancient castle was strategically built on the highest of the surrounding hills to spot incoming enemies.

Using the word hills correctly involves understanding its role as a plural countable noun and its common associations with prepositions and adjectives. Because hills are physical objects, they are almost always described in terms of their appearance, their location, or the action being performed upon them. For instance, you don't just 'see' hills; you see 'rolling,' 'steep,' 'verdant,' or 'barren' hills. The choice of adjective significantly changes the tone of your sentence. 'Rolling hills' suggests peace and tranquility, whereas 'steep hills' suggests a physical challenge or a dramatic landscape.

Prepositional Usage: We use 'up' and 'down' to describe movement: 'walking up the hills.' We use 'over' to describe crossing them: 'the sun set over the hills.' We use 'in' to describe a general area: 'a cottage in the hills.'

After a long drive, the majestic hills of Tuscany finally appeared on the horizon.

When constructing sentences, consider the scale. If you are comparing hills to mountains, you might say, 'These are merely hills compared to the Alps.' This highlights the relative nature of the word. In technical writing, you might use 'hills' to describe the gradient of a road: 'The road winds through several steep hills, requiring low gear for heavy vehicles.' In creative writing, 'hills' often personify the landscape: 'The hills huddled together under the grey sky.' The plural form is particularly useful when describing a range or a series of elevations, as it creates a sense of continuity and vastness.

Adjective Pairings: Common adjectives include: gentle, rolling, steep, rugged, wooded, grassy, distant, snow-capped (though this is more common for mountains), and undulating.

The sheep were grazing peacefully on the gentle hills of the countryside.

Furthermore, 'hills' can be used in the context of urban environments. You might say, 'The city is famous for its seven hills,' referring to the historical or geographical foundation of a place like Rome or Sheffield. In this context, 'hills' becomes a marker of heritage and identity. You can also use 'hills' to describe artificial mounds, such as 'burial hills' (mounds) or 'slag hills' from mining operations. The versatility of the word allows it to bridge the gap between natural geography and human-made structures. When writing, always ensure the context clarifies whether you are referring to a natural landscape or a metaphorical obstacle.

The marathon course was particularly challenging because of the numerous hills in the final five miles.

Verb Collocations: Verbs that go with hills: climb, descend, overlook, surround, dot, roll, and rise. 'The hills rise sharply from the plain' is a classic descriptive sentence.

Small villages were dotted across the hills, connected by narrow, winding roads.

We watched the fog roll in over the hills, slowly obscuring the valley below.

The word hills is ubiquitous in various domains, from the mundane to the highly specialized. In daily life, you will hear it most frequently in weather reports and travel discussions. Meteorologists might mention 'snow on the hills' to warn drivers of potentially hazardous conditions at higher elevations. Travelers and hikers use the word constantly when planning routes or describing their experiences. 'The hills were quite steep today' is a common refrain among outdoor enthusiasts. In these contexts, 'hills' is a practical term used to describe the physical environment and the effort required to navigate it.

In Literature and Song: The 'hills' are a staple of poetic and musical imagery. Think of 'The Sound of Music' and the famous line 'The hills are alive with the sound of music.' Here, the hills represent freedom, inspiration, and the grandeur of nature.

In many folk songs, the hills are portrayed as a place of refuge or a barrier between lovers.

In the world of real estate and urban development, 'hills' is a high-value word. Advertisements for homes often highlight 'views of the hills' or a 'hillside location' to attract buyers looking for prestige and scenery. In cities like Los Angeles, 'The Hills' (specifically the Hollywood Hills) is a metonym for celebrity culture and wealth. You might hear someone say, 'She moved up to the hills,' which implies she has achieved a certain level of success. Conversely, in historical contexts, 'hills' often refers to strategic military positions. History books are full of accounts of battles fought for 'control of the hills,' as the high ground offers a significant tactical advantage.

In Scientific and Academic Discourse: Geologists and geographers use 'hills' to categorize landforms. They might discuss 'drumlins' (hills formed by glacial ice) or 'kames.' In ecology, researchers study 'hillslopes' to understand soil erosion and water runoff patterns.

The environmental report focused on the preservation of the native flora found only on the northern hills.

Finally, you will encounter 'hills' in many common idioms. If someone is 'over the hill,' they are considered old or past their prime. If someone 'heads for the hills,' they are running away from a problem or danger. These phrases are used in casual conversation, movies, and literature, showing how the physical reality of a hill—something you have to climb and then descend—has been translated into metaphorical language. Whether you're listening to a pop song, reading a history book, or checking the weather, 'hills' is a word that provides essential context to our understanding of the world around us.

When the scandal broke, the CEO decided to head for the hills and avoid the press entirely.

In Sports: Cyclists and runners often talk about 'hill repeats' or 'climbing the hills.' In these contexts, hills are seen as a tool for building strength and endurance.

The Tour de France is famous for its grueling stages through the hills and mountains of Europe.

The mist clinging to the hills gave the morning a mysterious and ethereal quality.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with the word hills is failing to distinguish it from 'mountains.' While the line can be blurry, calling the Himalayas 'hills' would be a significant understatement, just as calling a small mound in a backyard a 'mountain' would be an exaggeration. In English, 'mountain' implies a certain level of grandeur, height, and often a rocky or snow-capped peak. 'Hills' are more approachable, rounded, and generally covered in vegetation. Using the wrong term can make your description feel inaccurate or even comical to native speakers.

Plural vs. Singular: Learners often forget that 'hills' is plural. If you are talking about one specific elevation, you must use 'hill.' For example, 'We climbed the hill' (one) vs. 'We hiked through the hills' (many).

Incorrect: We went for a walk in the hill. (Unless there is only one hill in the entire region, 'hills' is usually preferred for a general area.)

Another frequent error involves the use of articles. While you can say 'I like hills' (general), you usually say 'the hills' when referring to a specific group or the general concept of a hilly region. For example, 'The hills are beautiful this time of year.' Leaving out 'the' in this context can make the sentence sound incomplete. Additionally, learners sometimes confuse 'hills' with 'heels' (the back of the foot). While they sound somewhat similar, their meanings are entirely different. 'Headed for the hills' (running away) is a common idiom, but 'headed for the heels' makes no sense.

Confusing with 'Mountains': In some languages, the same word might be used for both. In English, the distinction is important for setting the right scale and atmosphere.

Incorrect: Mount Everest is one of the highest hills in the world. (Correct: mountains)

Preposition errors are also common. You live 'in' the hills (the region), but you stand 'on' a hill (the specific surface). You walk 'up' a hill, not 'to' a hill, if you are describing the act of climbing. Furthermore, the idiom 'over the hill' is often misused. It specifically means someone is old; it doesn't mean they have finished a task. If you want to say someone has finished the hardest part of a job, you should say they are 'over the hump.' Understanding these nuances prevents awkward misunderstandings in both formal and informal communication.

Incorrect: I am standing in the hill. (Correct: on the hill)

Spelling Errors: Avoid spelling it as 'hils' or 'hells.' 'Hells' refers to the plural of hell, which is a very different concept!

The hills were so steep that the car struggled to reach the top.

We should distinguish between the rolling hills of the south and the rugged mountains of the north.

While hills is a perfectly good word, the English language offers a variety of synonyms that can provide more precision or a different 'flavor' to your writing. Choosing the right alternative depends on the size, shape, and context of the landform you are describing. For example, if you are talking about a very small, rounded hill, the word 'knoll' is often more appropriate. It suggests something gentle and perhaps even picturesque. If the hill is more of a long, narrow elevation, 'ridge' is the better choice. A 'ridge' implies a crest or a line of high ground, often connecting two peaks.

Comparison: Hill vs. Knoll vs. Mound

Hill: General term for raised land.
Knoll: A small, natural, rounded hill.
Mound: Often implies an artificial or heap-like structure (e.g., a burial mound).

The grassy knoll was the perfect spot for a summer picnic.

For larger elevations that aren't quite mountains, you might use 'heights' or 'uplands.' 'Heights' often carries a more formal or dramatic tone, as in 'The Heights of Abraham.' 'Uplands' is a more technical, geographical term used to describe high-altitude regions that are not mountainous. If you want to describe a hill with a very steep, rocky side, 'bluff' or 'cliff' might be more accurate, though these usually refer to the face of the hill rather than the whole structure. In British English, you might also encounter 'fell' (used in Northern England) or 'brae' (used in Scotland) to describe hills and slopes.

More Alternatives

Rise: A very gentle increase in elevation.
Slope: Focuses on the inclined surface of the hill.
Promontory: A high point of land extending into a body of water.
Tor: A high, rocky hill (common in South West England).

The hikers followed the ridge for miles, enjoying views of the valleys on both sides.

When choosing an alternative, consider the emotional impact. 'Hills' is neutral and friendly. 'Peaks' (even if used for high hills) sounds sharp and challenging. 'Dunes' are hills made of sand, which immediately changes the setting to a desert or a beach. By expanding your vocabulary beyond 'hills,' you can paint a much more vivid picture for your reader. Whether you are describing the 'rolling downs' of Southern England or the 'rugged foothills' of the Rockies, the specific word you choose helps define the character of the landscape and the experience of those within it.

The sand dunes shifted constantly with the desert winds, creating a landscape in motion.

Register and Usage: 'Hills' is suitable for all registers. 'Uplands' is more academic. 'Knoll' is more literary. 'Hummock' is a very specific term for a small mound or hillock, often in a marshy area.

The castle was built upon a rocky promontory overlooking the stormy sea.

The foothills were covered in dense forest, hiding the true height of the mountains behind them.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The word 'hill' is one of the oldest words in the English language, dating back over a thousand years. Its stability in meaning shows how fundamental the concept of a hill is to human geography.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /hɪlz/

US /hɪlz/

Single syllable, so the stress is on the entire word.

Rima com

bills fills grills kills mills pills skills thrills wills

Erros comuns

Pronouncing it like 'heels' (/hiːlz/) with a long 'e' sound.
Pronouncing it like 'hells' (/hɛlz/) with an 'e' as in 'bed'.
Failing to voice the final 's' so it sounds like an 's' instead of a 'z'.
Dropping the 'h' sound (common in some dialects).
Making the 'l' sound too light or vocalic.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

A very common word found in basic texts and descriptions.

Escrita 2/5

Easy to spell and use, though choosing the right adjective adds complexity.

Expressão oral 2/5

Simple to pronounce, but watch out for the 'hills' vs 'heels' distinction.

Audição 2/5

Easily recognized in speech, even with different accents.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

land mountain high green up

Aprenda a seguir

valley ridge slope plateau terrain

Avançado

geomorphology topography undulating precipitous escarpment

Gramática essencial

Pluralization of nouns ending in 'l'

hill -> hills, bell -> bells

Using 'the' with geographical features

The hills are beautiful. (Specific or general region)

Prepositions of place (in, on, at)

In the hills (region), on the hill (surface).

Adjective order

Beautiful green rolling hills.

Compound nouns

Hillside, hilltop.

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Exemplos por nível

The hills are green in the spring.

Les collines sont vertes au printemps.

Simple plural noun 'hills' used with the verb 'to be'.

I see three small hills.

Je vois trois petites collines.

Plural noun 'hills' following a number and an adjective.

We walk up the hills.

Nous montons les collines.

Preposition 'up' used with 'the hills' to show direction.

The hills are far away.

Les collines sont loin.

Adverbial phrase 'far away' describing the location of the hills.

There are sheep on the hills.

Il y a des moutons sur les collines.

Preposition 'on' used to show position on the surface of the hills.

The hills are very high.

Les collines sont très hautes.

Adjective 'high' modified by the intensifier 'very'.

I like the hills.

J'aime les collines.

Direct object 'the hills' after the verb 'like'.

Look at the hills!

Regarde les collines !

Imperative sentence using 'the hills' as the object of the preposition 'at'.

The sun is setting behind the hills.

Le soleil se couche derrière les collines.

Preposition 'behind' used to show relative position.

They live in a small house in the hills.

Ils vivent dans une petite maison dans les collines.

Preposition 'in' used to describe a general region or area.

The hills are covered with white snow.

Les collines sont couvertes de neige blanche.

Passive construction 'are covered with' describing the state of the hills.

It is difficult to cycle up these hills.

Il est difficile de monter ces collines à vélo.

Infinitive 'to cycle' used with the adjective 'difficult' to describe an action on hills.

The hills are more beautiful than the city.

Les collines sont plus belles que la ville.

Comparative structure 'more beautiful than' comparing two locations.

We can see the ocean from the top of the hills.

On peut voir l'océan depuis le sommet des collines.

Noun phrase 'the top of the hills' used as a point of origin.

There are many trees on the hills.

Il y a beaucoup d'arbres sur les collines.

Quantifier 'many' used with the plural noun 'hills'.

The hills are very quiet at night.

Les collines sont très calmes la nuit.

Adjective 'quiet' describing the atmosphere of the hills.

The rolling hills of the countryside are perfect for hiking.

Les collines vallonnées de la campagne sont parfaites pour la randonnée.

Compound adjective 'rolling' used to describe the shape of the hills.

If you are tired of the city, you should head for the hills.

Si vous en avez assez de la ville, vous devriez vous réfugier dans les collines.

Idiomatic expression 'head for the hills' meaning to escape.

The road winds through the hills for several miles.

La route serpente à travers les collines sur plusieurs kilomètres.

Verb 'winds' used to describe the path of the road through the hills.

He's a bit over the hill now, but he was a great athlete.

Il est un peu sur le déclin maintenant, mais c'était un grand athlète.

Idiomatic expression 'over the hill' meaning past one's prime.

The ancient castle sits on one of the highest hills in the region.

Le vieux château se trouve sur l'une des plus hautes collines de la région.

Superlative 'highest' used to specify one hill among many.

The hills provide a natural barrier against the strong winds.

Les collines constituent une barrière naturelle contre les vents violents.

Noun phrase 'natural barrier' describing the function of the hills.

We spent the weekend exploring the hills and valleys of the area.

Nous avons passé le week-end à explorer les collines et les vallées de la région.

Pairing 'hills and valleys' to describe a complete geographical area.

The mist clinging to the hills made the morning look magical.

La brume accrochée aux collines rendait le matin magique.

Participle phrase 'clinging to the hills' modifying 'the mist'.

The city of Rome is famously built upon seven hills.

La ville de Rome est célèbre pour avoir été bâtie sur sept collines.

Passive voice 'is built upon' used with a specific number of hills.

The foothills of the mountains are home to many unique species.

Les contreforts des montagnes abritent de nombreuses espèces uniques.

Specific term 'foothills' used to describe the base of mountains.

The battle for the hills was a turning point in the war.

La bataille pour les collines a été un tournant dans la guerre.

Use of 'the hills' as a strategic military objective.

The undulating hills stretched out as far as the eye could see.

Les collines ondulantes s'étendaient à perte de vue.

Sophisticated adjective 'undulating' used for descriptive effect.

The project was an uphill battle from the start due to lack of funding.

Le projet a été une bataille acharnée dès le début en raison du manque de financement.

Idiomatic adjective 'uphill' derived from the concept of a hill.

The hills were terraced for farming centuries ago.

Les collines ont été aménagées en terrasses pour l'agriculture il y a des siècles.

Verb 'terraced' describing human modification of the hills.

The property offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

La propriété offre des vues panoramiques sur les collines environnantes.

Adjective 'surrounding' used to describe the location of the hills.

The geologist explained how these hills were formed by glacial movement.

Le géologue a expliqué comment ces collines ont été formées par le mouvement des glaciers.

Technical explanation using 'hills' as the subject of a passive clause.

The rugged hills of the north provide a stark contrast to the fertile plains of the south.

Les collines escarpées du nord offrent un contraste saisissant avec les plaines fertiles du sud.

Use of 'rugged' and 'stark contrast' for high-level description.

The preservation of these hills is vital for maintaining the local ecosystem.

La préservation de ces collines est vitale pour le maintien de l'écosystème local.

Abstract noun 'preservation' used in a formal environmental context.

The novel's protagonist often sought solace in the silent, brooding hills.

Le protagoniste du roman cherchait souvent du réconfort dans les collines silencieuses et menaçantes.

Personification of hills using adjectives like 'brooding'.

The winding ascent through the hills tested the limits of the old car's engine.

L'ascension sinueuse à travers les collines a mis à l'épreuve les limites du moteur de la vieille voiture.

Noun 'ascent' used to describe the journey through the hills.

The hills were shrouded in a thick blanket of fog, obscuring the path ahead.

Les collines étaient enveloppées d'un épais manteau de brouillard, masquant le chemin devant.

Metaphorical use of 'shrouded' and 'blanket' to describe weather on the hills.

The cultural identity of the region is deeply rooted in the life of the hills.

L'identité culturelle de la région est profondément enracinée dans la vie des collines.

Abstract concept of 'life of the hills' representing a lifestyle.

The hills acted as a natural amphitheater, amplifying the sound of the distant thunder.

Les collines agissaient comme un amphithéâtre naturel, amplifiant le bruit du tonnerre lointain.

Simile comparing hills to an 'amphitheater' for acoustic effect.

The developers were criticized for scarring the hills with unsightly new housing complexes.

Les promoteurs ont été critiqués pour avoir défiguré les collines avec de nouveaux complexes résidentiels inesthétiques.

Strong verb 'scarring' used to express a critical perspective.

The geomorphology of the region is characterized by a series of ancient, weathered hills.

La géomorphologie de la région est caractérisée par une série de collines anciennes et érodées.

Technical term 'geomorphology' and adjective 'weathered' for precision.

The hills, in their stoic permanence, seemed to mock the fleeting nature of human endeavor.

Les collines, dans leur permanence stoïque, semblaient se moquer de la nature éphémère de l'entreprise humaine.

Philosophical personification of hills using 'stoic permanence'.

The intricate drainage patterns across the hills were a testament to millennia of hydraulic action.

Les réseaux de drainage complexes à travers les collines témoignaient de millénaires d'action hydraulique.

Complex noun phrases like 'intricate drainage patterns' and 'millennia of hydraulic action'.

The poet's use of the hills as a metaphor for spiritual ascent is a recurring theme in his later work.

L'utilisation par le poète des collines comme métaphore de l'ascension spirituelle est un thème récurrent dans son œuvre tardive.

Literary analysis using 'hills' as a metaphorical vehicle.

The socio-economic disparity between the valley dwellers and those in the hills was palpable.

La disparité socio-économique entre les habitants de la vallée et ceux des collines était palpable.

Formal sociological terms like 'socio-economic disparity' and 'palpable'.

The hills were once the site of extensive mining, the remnants of which still pockmark the landscape.

Les collines étaient autrefois le site d'une exploitation minière intensive, dont les vestiges marquent encore le paysage.

Use of 'remnants' and 'pockmark' to describe historical impact on hills.

The subtle gradations of light upon the hills at twilight inspired generations of landscape painters.

Les subtiles gradations de lumière sur les collines au crépuscule ont inspiré des générations de peintres paysagistes.

Artistic description using 'subtle gradations' and 'twilight'.

The hills serve as a crucial catchment area, feeding the rivers that sustain the entire province.

Les collines servent de zone de captage cruciale, alimentant les rivières qui font vivre toute la province.

Technical hydrological term 'catchment area' used in a formal context.

Colocações comuns

rolling hills

steep hills

grassy hills

distant hills

surrounding hills

climb the hills

wooded hills

foot of the hills

over the hills

hilly terrain

Frases Comuns

In the hills

— Located in a hilly region or area.

They have a beautiful summer home in the hills.

Up in the hills

— In a higher, often more remote, hilly area.

The air is much cooler up in the hills.

Across the hills

— On the other side of the hills or moving over them.

The next village is just across the hills.

Behind the hills

— Hidden from view by the hills.

The moon rose from behind the hills.

Among the hills

— Surrounded by hills.

The lake is hidden among the hills.

To the hills

— Moving toward the hills.

We drove to the hills for a day of hiking.

From the hills

— Coming from the direction of the hills.

A cold breeze blew down from the hills.

The Hollywood Hills

— A specific, famous hilly area in Los Angeles.

Many celebrities live in the Hollywood Hills.

The Black Hills

— A specific mountain range/hilly area in South Dakota.

Mount Rushmore is located in the Black Hills.

Seven hills

— Often refers to the seven hills of Rome or other cities.

Rome was built on seven hills.

Frequentemente confundido com

hills vs heels

Sounds similar but refers to the back of the foot or part of a shoe.

hills vs hells

Sounds similar but refers to the plural of hell (place of suffering).

hills vs mountains

Hills are smaller and less steep than mountains.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Over the hill"

— Past one's prime; considered old and no longer useful or attractive.

He joked that turning forty meant he was officially over the hill.

Informal

"Head for the hills"

— To run away or flee, especially to avoid trouble or a difficult situation.

When the boss started shouting, everyone headed for the hills.

Informal

"Old as the hills"

— Very old; ancient.

That joke is as old as the hills; everyone has heard it.

Neutral

"An uphill battle"

— A very difficult task that requires a lot of effort over a long period.

Getting the project approved was an uphill battle from the start.

Neutral

"A hill of beans"

— Something of very little value or importance (usually used in the negative).

In the grand scheme of things, his opinion doesn't amount to a hill of beans.

Informal

"The king of the hill"

— The most successful or powerful person in a particular group or field.

After the merger, the company became the king of the hill in the tech industry.

Informal

"A hill to die on"

— An issue or principle that someone is willing to fight for, no matter the cost.

I don't agree with the new policy, but it's not a hill I'm willing to die on.

Informal

"Run for the hills"

— Similar to 'head for the hills'; to escape quickly.

If I were you, I'd run for the hills before she finds out what happened.

Informal

"Over the hills and far away"

— In a very distant place; often used in nursery rhymes or stories.

The prince traveled over the hills and far away to find the magic flower.

Literary/Child-friendly

"Go downhill"

— To deteriorate or get worse.

The neighborhood started to go downhill after the factory closed.

Neutral

Fácil de confundir

hills vs mountain

Both are raised landforms.

Mountains are much taller (usually over 600m) and steeper than hills.

We climbed the hills, but we weren't ready for the mountain.

hills vs knoll

Both describe raised land.

A knoll is specifically a small, rounded hill.

The house sat on a small knoll overlooking the lake.

hills vs ridge

Both are elevations.

A ridge is a long, narrow elevation, often the top part of a hill.

We walked along the ridge of the hills.

hills vs mound

Both are raised areas.

A mound is often smaller and can be man-made (like a pile of dirt).

The mole left several mounds of dirt in the garden.

hills vs dune

Both are hills.

A dune is a hill made specifically of sand, usually in a desert or beach.

The children rolled down the sand dunes.

Padrões de frases

The [noun] are [adjective].

The hills are green.

There are [noun] on the [noun].

There are sheep on the hills.

The [adjective] hills are [adjective] for [verb-ing].

The rolling hills are perfect for hiking.

The [noun] is built upon [number] hills.

The city is built upon seven hills.

The [adjective] hills provide a [adjective] contrast to the [noun].

The rugged hills provide a stark contrast to the flat plains.

The [noun] of the hills is [verb-ed] by [noun].

The geomorphology of the hills is characterized by erosion.

He is [idiom].

He is over the hill.

It was an [idiom].

It was an uphill battle.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

hill

hillside

hilltop

hillock

foothills

anthill

Verbos

hill (to form into a hill, e.g., in gardening)

Adjetivos

hilly

hill-like

Relacionado

mountain

valley

slope

ridge

plateau

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Como usar

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written English.

Erros comuns

Calling a mountain a hill. → Calling a mountain a mountain.
Hills are much smaller. Calling a huge peak a 'hill' can sound like a joke or a mistake.
Saying 'I live on the hills' when you mean the area. → I live in the hills.
Use 'in' for the general region and 'on' for a specific hilltop.
Pronouncing 'hills' like 'heels'. → Pronouncing 'hills' with a short /ɪ/.
This is a very common pronunciation error that changes the meaning of the word.
Using 'hill' when you mean a range of them. → Using 'the hills'.
The plural form is almost always used when describing a landscape or region.
Spelling it as 'hils'. → Spelling it as 'hills'.
Don't forget the double 'l' in the middle of the word.

Dicas

Use Descriptive Adjectives

Don't just say 'hills.' Use words like 'verdant,' 'barren,' 'rugged,' or 'undulating' to make your writing more vivid.

Watch Your Prepositions

Remember: 'in the hills' for the area, 'on the hill' for the spot, and 'up/down the hill' for movement.

Head for the Hills

Use this phrase when you want to say someone is running away from trouble. It's a very common and natural expression.

Hill vs. Mountain

If it's easy to walk up, it's probably a hill. If you need special gear or it's very high, it's a mountain.

Short 'i' Sound

Make sure the 'i' in 'hills' is short. If you make it long, you are talking about the back of your feet (heels)!

Double 'L'

Always remember the double 'l' in hills. Spelling it with one 'l' is a common mistake.

Rolling Hills

This is one of the most common and beautiful collocations in English. Use it to describe a peaceful landscape.

Regional Terms

In different parts of the world, people might use 'fells,' 'downs,' or 'braes' instead of hills. It's good to recognize these!

Uphill Battle

Use this to describe a very difficult task. It's a great way to show you understand metaphorical English.

Look for the Summit

Even a small hill has a 'summit' or 'top.' Using these words adds variety to your descriptions.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'Hills' as 'High Islands' on land. They are higher than the ground but not as high as mountains.

Associação visual

Imagine a green wave of land. The tops of the waves are the hills. They look like gentle bumps on the Earth's surface.

Word Web

Green Steep Rolling Hiking Valley Summit Nature Countryside

Desafio

Try to describe a famous city that has hills (like San Francisco or Rome) using the word 'hills' at least three times in a paragraph.

Origem da palavra

The word 'hill' comes from the Old English 'hyll,' which is of Germanic origin. It is related to the Middle Dutch 'hille' and the Low German 'hull.' It shares a distant root with the Latin 'collis' (meaning hill) and 'culmen' (meaning peak).

Significado original: The original meaning in Old English was a natural elevation of the land, similar to its current use.

Germanic

Contexto cultural

Be aware that some hills are sacred sites for indigenous peoples; treat descriptions of such places with respect.

In the UK, 'hill walking' is a very popular pastime, and there are specific terms like 'Munros' for certain high hills/mountains in Scotland.

The Sound of Music ('The hills are alive...') The Hollywood Hills (Los Angeles landmark) The Black Hills of South Dakota (Sacred to Native Americans)

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Hiking and Outdoors

hiking in the hills
steep climb up the hills
trail through the hills
view from the hills

Geography and Nature

rolling hills
wooded hills
hills and valleys
foothills of the mountains

Travel and Tourism

visit the hills
stay in the hills
scenic hills
famous hills

Urban Planning

built on hills
steep city hills
hillside development
terraced hills

Weather Reports

snow on the hills
fog in the hills
windy on the hills
mist over the hills

Iniciadores de conversa

"Do you prefer living in the hills or by the sea?"

"Have you ever hiked in the hills during the winter?"

"What are the most famous hills in your country?"

"Do you find it difficult to drive on steep hills?"

"If you could have a house in the hills, where would it be?"

Temas para diário

Describe a time you climbed a hill and what you saw from the top.

Write about the difference between hills and mountains in your own words.

Imagine a world where there are no hills. How would it be different?

Write a poem about the rolling hills in the morning mist.

Explain the idiom 'over the hill' and whether you think it is a fair expression.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Generally, mountains are taller and steeper than hills. While there is no universal rule, many geographers consider a mountain to be over 600 meters (2,000 feet) in height. Hills are usually more rounded and easier to climb. For example, the rolling hills of England are very different from the jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains.

No, 'hill' is the singular form. You use 'hill' when referring to one specific elevation (e.g., 'The house is on a hill'). You use 'hills' when referring to more than one or a general region (e.g., 'We went hiking in the hills').

It is an idiom that means someone is past their prime or getting old. For example, 'He thinks he's over the hill now that he's 50.' It is usually used in a lighthearted or slightly negative way.

It is more common to say 'I live in the hills' if you mean the general area. If you are on the very top of a specific hill, you would say 'I live on the hill.' Using 'in' suggests you are among them.

Rolling hills are a series of gentle, wave-like hills that rise and fall smoothly. They are often covered in grass or crops and are considered very beautiful and peaceful.

Foothills are the smaller hills located at the base of a mountain range. They act as a transition between the flat land and the high mountains. For example, the foothills of the Himalayas.

Yes, it is extremely common. It is used in geography, travel, literature, and many everyday expressions. Every English learner should know this word.

This is an idiom used to describe something of very little importance. It is almost always used in the negative: 'It doesn't amount to a hill of beans,' meaning it is worthless.

It is pronounced /hɪlz/. The 'i' is short, like in 'it,' and the 's' sounds like a 'z.' Be careful not to say 'heels' (/hiːlz/).

Yes, many cities are famous for their hills, such as San Francisco, Rome, and Lisbon. These hills often define the city's character and views.

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