miles: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
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Quick answer
What does “miles” mean?
A plural noun for the unit of linear measure equal to 1,760 yards (approximately 1.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A plural noun for the unit of linear measure equal to 1,760 yards (approximately 1.609 kilometres).
Used figuratively to denote a very great distance, a large degree, or a significant amount or interval. Often used adverbially or as an intensifier.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The adverbial/intensifier use ('miles better') is more common in British English, though understood in American English. In technical/legal contexts, the UK uses the statute mile; the US uses the US survey mile (slight difference).
Connotations
In British English, the metaphorical/intensifier use is more colloquial and pervasive. In both, 'miles away' can mean physically distant or mentally distracted.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in British English due to the colloquial intensifier use. Both varieties use it as the standard unit for road distances.
Grammar
How to Use “miles” in a Sentence
[number] miles [from/to/away from] [place][verb] for milesmiles [comparative adjective/adverb]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “miles” in a Sentence
adverb
British English
- This new phone is miles faster than my old one.
- Her guess was miles off the actual answer.
American English
- The final score wasn't even close; they won by miles.
- I'm miles behind on my emails today.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In loyalty programs ('air miles', 'reward miles'), logistics ('freight ton-miles'), and automotive ('miles per gallon').
Academic
Used in geography, history, and physics when using imperial units. Often converted to/from kilometres.
Everyday
Discussing travel distance, walking, running, or driving. Used figuratively to express large differences ('miles better').
Technical
Nautical mile (1.852 km) in aviation/maritime contexts. Statute mile in land measurement. US survey mile (≈1609.347 m).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “miles”
- Using 'mile' as an uncountable noun (e.g., 'We walked for mile'). Incorrect: 'It's five mile away'. Correct: 'It's five miles away'. Confusing 'miles' with 'smiles' in fast speech/writing.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, 'miles' is the standard plural form of the singular noun 'mile'. The singular is used with numbers (one mile, half a mile). 'Miles' is used for plural quantities (five miles, many miles).
It means to make a special effort or do more than is expected or required, often to help someone or achieve a goal.
No, 'miles' refers specifically to the imperial unit. The metric equivalent is kilometres. However, in figurative use ('miles better'), it is not tied to any measurement system.
A nautical mile is based on one minute of latitude and is used in maritime and aviation navigation (approx. 1.852 km). A statute (land) mile is used for road distances (approx. 1.609 km). They are different units.
A plural noun for the unit of linear measure equal to 1,760 yards (approximately 1.
Miles is usually neutral in register.
Miles: in British English it is pronounced /maɪlz/, and in American English it is pronounced /maɪlz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “miss by a mile”
- “go the extra mile”
- “run a mile (from)”
- “be miles away”
- “a country mile”
- “see/tell something a mile off”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the Roman 'mille passus' meaning 'a thousand paces'. A mile was originally 1,000 Roman double-steps. For the plural 'miles', imagine many signs saying 'mi' (the abbreviation) with multiple 'L's for the 'les' sound.
Conceptual Metaphor
DISTANCE IS QUANTITY (e.g., 'miles of paperwork'). SUPERIORITY/DEFICIENCY IS DISTANCE (e.g., 'miles ahead/behind'). MENTAL ABSENCE IS PHYSICAL DISTANCE ('miles away').
Practice
Quiz
In which sentence is 'miles' used as an adverb/intensifier?