silicon valley
/ˌsɪlɪkən ˈvæli/
Meaning
Silicon Valley is a region in Northern California that serves as a global center for high technology, innovation, and venture capital. Metaphorically, the term is often used to refer to the entire US high-tech sector or the startup culture associated with it. It is a neutral term used in journalism, business, and everyday conversations about tech trends.
Examples
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Many young software engineers move to Silicon Valley hoping to land a job at a prestigious startup.
Many young software engineers move to Silicon Valley hoping to land a job at a prestigious startup.
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The fast-paced culture of Silicon Valley encourages entrepreneurs to take big risks and learn from failure.
The fast-paced culture of Silicon Valley encourages entrepreneurs to take big risks and learn from failure.
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Although Silicon Valley remains the tech capital, other cities are emerging as strong rivals.
Although Silicon Valley remains the tech capital, other cities are emerging as strong rivals.
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She secured funding from a prominent Silicon Valley venture capital firm to launch her new app.
She secured funding from a prominent Silicon Valley venture capital firm to launch her new app.
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Rising housing costs have forced some tech workers to relocate away from Silicon Valley.
Rising housing costs have forced some tech workers to relocate away from Silicon Valley.
Common Mistakes
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✗ He wants to work in the Silicon Valley.
✓ He wants to work in Silicon Valley.
We do not use the definite article 'the' before 'Silicon Valley' when referring to the region or industry.
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✗ The company is based in Silicone Valley.
✓ The company is based in Silicon Valley.
'Silicon' is the chemical element used in microchips. 'Silicone' is a synthetic polymer used in plastics and cosmetics. Spelling it with an 'e' changes the meaning entirely.
Related Expressions
Practice
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Many of the world's largest technology companies have their global headquarters in ___.
💡 The famous high-tech region in Northern California.
Show answer
Silicon Valley
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The startup received a multi-million dollar investment from a prominent ___ venture capitalist.
💡 Associated with the California tech and startup hub.
Show answer
Silicon Valley