street map

Meaning

A street map is a visual representation of a city or town showing the names and locations of roads, landmarks, and public transit. While many travelers now use digital maps on their phones, physical street maps are still commonly provided by hotels and tourist offices. It helps you navigate and find your way around an unfamiliar area.

Examples

• The hotel receptionist gave us a free street map of the historic center.

  The hotel receptionist gave us a free street map of the historic center.

• I always carry a paper street map in case my phone battery dies.

  I always carry a paper street map in case my phone battery dies.

• Can you show me where the museum is on this street map?

  Can you show me where the museum is on this street map?

• We got lost because we didn't have a reliable street map of the city.

  We got lost because we didn't have a reliable street map of the city.

• There is a large street map displayed near the subway exit.

  There is a large street map displayed near the subway exit.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ Can you give me a streets map?

  ✓ Can you give me a street map?

  When a noun is used as an adjective to modify another noun (noun adjunct), it is almost always singular. Use "street map", not "streets map".

• ✗ I need a road map of London.

  ✓ I need a street map of London.

  A "road map" usually shows highways and large regions/countries for driving long distances. For walking around a city, you need a "street map".

Related Expressions

Practice

• Excuse me, do you have a local ___ of the downtown area?

  💡 A map showing roads, streets, and tourist spots.

  Show answer

  street map

• It is much easier to navigate the narrow alleys with a physical ___.

  💡 A paper map of city streets.

  Show answer

  street map