toll bridge: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2neutral
Quick answer
What does “toll bridge” mean?
A bridge where a fee (toll) must be paid to cross it.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A bridge where a fee (toll) must be paid to cross it.
A bridge whose construction and maintenance costs are funded through user fees, often operated by a private company or public authority under a concession.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Concept and term are identical. The primary difference lies in the specific bridges referenced (e.g., Severn Bridge vs. Golden Gate Bridge) and local toll collection systems.
Connotations
Both carry neutral or slightly negative connotations related to cost and inconvenience, though accepted as a normal funding model for major infrastructure.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties when discussing transport infrastructure.
Grammar
How to Use “toll bridge” in a Sentence
The [NAME] is a toll bridge.We had to cross a toll bridge to get there.The toll bridge connects [PLACE A] and [PLACE B].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “toll bridge” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The Dartford Crossing is a well-known toll bridge over the Thames.
- We took a detour to avoid the toll bridge and save money.
- The new toll bridge has significantly reduced congestion in the town centre.
American English
- The Golden Gate Bridge was a toll bridge for many decades.
- You'll encounter a toll bridge just outside the city limits.
- The debate focused on whether to convert the free bridge into a toll bridge.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Discussions of infrastructure financing, public-private partnerships, and transport economics.
Academic
In civil engineering, urban planning, and transport policy texts.
Everyday
Giving directions, complaining about travel costs, or planning a route.
Technical
Referring to specific bridge types (e.g., suspension, cable-stayed) that require tolls for operation.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “toll bridge”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “toll bridge”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “toll bridge”
- Using 'toll' as an adjective before other nouns incorrectly (e.g., 'toll road bridge').
- Confusing 'toll bridge' with 'toll booth' (the small building where you pay).
- Saying 'bridge toll' when referring to the structure itself.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A 'toll bridge' is a specific structure (a bridge) where a fee is charged. A 'toll road' is a longer stretch of highway where a fee is charged for its use. A toll road may contain a toll bridge within it.
It depends on the specific bridge and its payment system. Many modern toll bridges use electronic toll collection (e.g., tags, transponders, automatic number plate recognition) which can be paid online, while others may require cash or card at a booth.
Bridges often become toll-free once the original construction bonds are paid off, or due to political decisions to remove the fee to boost regional commerce or for social equity reasons. Maintenance costs are then covered by general taxes.
You typically incur a fine or a penalty charge. Systems use cameras to capture license plates, and a bill (often higher than the original toll) is sent to the vehicle's registered owner.
A bridge where a fee (toll) must be paid to cross it.
Toll bridge is usually neutral in register.
Toll bridge: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtəʊl ˌbrɪdʒ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtoʊl ˌbrɪdʒ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'TOLL' sounds like 'TOLL' a bell to announce you must PAY to cross the BRIDGE.'
Conceptual Metaphor
A BARRIER TO FREE MOVEMENT (focusing on the cost aspect); A GATEWAY (focusing on the access it provides for a price).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a toll bridge?