limo: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal (colloquial abbreviation).
Quick answer
What does “limo” mean?
A large, luxurious car, especially one driven by a chauffeur.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A large, luxurious car, especially one driven by a chauffeur; a limousine.
A vehicle, often stretched or specially modified, used for special occasions, VIP transport, or group travel. Can also informally refer to airport shuttle vans or large, comfortable cars.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Both use the clipped form "limo". The full form "limousine" is slightly more formal.
Connotations
Similar connotations of luxury and special occasions in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally common and informal in both BrE and AmE.
Grammar
How to Use “limo” in a Sentence
[Subject] arrived in/hired a limo.We got a limo to take us to the airport.The limo was waiting outside.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “limo” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- They decided to limo it to the awards ceremony for a bit of glamour.
- We're limoing to the wedding to avoid parking hassles.
American English
- Let's limo downtown for the concert.
- They limoed all the VIPs from the hotel to the venue.
adjective
British English
- They had a proper limo experience for their hen do.
- He's got that limo lifestyle now.
American English
- We're doing the prom thing—tux, corsage, limo ride.
- It was a very limo-and-red-carpet kind of event.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used for transporting executives or important clients. 'The CEO was picked up by a corporate limo.'
Academic
Rare, except in sociological texts discussing status symbols or transport studies.
Everyday
Common for discussing weddings, proms, nights out, or airport transfers. 'We splurged on a limo for her birthday.'
Technical
Used in the transportation and hospitality industries to specify a vehicle class for hire.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “limo”
- Using 'limo' in very formal writing (use 'limousine'). Confusing it with a standard taxi or cab.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, 'limo' is the informal, clipped form of 'limousine'. The full word is used in more formal or professional contexts.
A limo (limousine) implies luxury, pre-booking, and often a chauffeur for a special occasion or VIP transport. A taxi is a standard, metered car for hire for everyday point-to-point travel.
Not exactly. While informally some may call large sedans 'limos', the term typically connotes a specific level of luxury, comfort, and service. 'Stretch limos' are a distinct, elongated category.
It is pronounced LIM-oh. In British English, the final 'o' sound is closer to the vowel in 'go', while in American English it is a longer 'oh' sound.
A large, luxurious car, especially one driven by a chauffeur.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Living the limo life (informal: living luxuriously).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'LIMO' as short for 'LIMits Of luxury' – it's a vehicle that pushes the limits of comfort and style.
Conceptual Metaphor
LUXURY / SOCIAL STATUS IS A VEHICLE (Arriving in a limo elevates your perceived status).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'limo' LEAST appropriate?