highroad: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1/C2Formal, literary, occasionally metaphorical
Quick answer
What does “highroad” mean?
A main road.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A main road; a direct or well-established route.
A morally or ethically superior course of action; the most direct or obvious path to a goal.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The literal sense of 'a main road' is more common in British English (e.g., the A34 highroad). In American English, the term is far less common for a literal road, where 'highway' or 'main road' is preferred. The metaphorical sense is understood in both varieties.
Connotations
In the UK, it can have an old-fashioned or rural connotation for the literal sense. The metaphorical sense carries a positive, principled connotation.
Frequency
Low frequency overall. Higher relative frequency in UK English for the literal sense. The metaphorical 'on the highroad to...' is rare but recognised.
Grammar
How to Use “highroad” in a Sentence
be on the highroad to [noun phrase]take the highroadVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Metaphorical use, e.g., 'The company took the highroad by admitting fault.'
Academic
Rare. Could appear in historical or literary texts discussing routes or morality.
Everyday
Uncommon in casual speech. More likely in writing or formal advice.
Technical
Not used in technical contexts.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “highroad”
- Using 'highroad' to mean a road at a high altitude (use 'mountain road').
- Confusing 'highroad' with 'highway' in American contexts (where 'highway' is standard).
- Using it in casual conversation where 'main road' is more natural.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In modern American English, no. 'Highway' is the standard term for a major public road. 'Highroad' is an older or British term for a main road and is more often used metaphorically.
It is a metaphorical idiom meaning to choose the morally superior or most honorable course of action in a difficult situation.
It would sound quite formal or old-fashioned, especially in American English. 'Main road' or the idiom 'take the high road' are more common in speech.
The common antonym, especially in the metaphorical sense, is 'the low road', which implies unethical or easy but dishonorable behavior.
A main road.
Highroad is usually formal, literary, occasionally metaphorical in register.
Highroad: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhaɪ.rəʊd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhaɪ.roʊd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “take the highroad”
- “on the highroad to success/ruin”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a HIGH ROAD that goes over hills, giving a clear, direct, and superior path compared to the low, winding roads below.
Conceptual Metaphor
MORALITY/SUCCESS IS A JOURNEY ALONG A HIGH, CLEAR PATH.
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is 'highroad' MOST commonly used for a literal main road?