B2 verb Neutral

ambiance

/ˈæm.bi.əns/

The character and atmosphere of a place, or the mood created by a particular setting. It refers to the overall feeling that a location gives to people, often influenced by lighting, decor, and sound.

Examples

3 of 5
1

The restaurant's ambiance was cozy and warm, making it perfect for a first date.

The dining area had a comfortable and friendly atmosphere suitable for couples.

2

The architectural design was specifically intended to enhance the spiritual ambiance of the cathedral.

The building's layout was meant to improve the holy feeling of the large church.

3

I really love the chill ambiance of this rooftop bar.

I like the relaxed and laid-back feeling of this high-up bar.

Word Family

Noun
ambiance
Adverb
ambiently
Adjective
ambient
Related
ambience
💡

Memory Tip

Think of 'Ambient music' (background music). You listen to ambient music to change the ambiance of your room.

Quick Quiz

The soft jazz and dim lighting created a very relaxing ________ in the lounge.

Correct!

The correct answer is: ambiance

Examples

1

The restaurant's ambiance was cozy and warm, making it perfect for a first date.

everyday

The dining area had a comfortable and friendly atmosphere suitable for couples.

2

The architectural design was specifically intended to enhance the spiritual ambiance of the cathedral.

formal

The building's layout was meant to improve the holy feeling of the large church.

3

I really love the chill ambiance of this rooftop bar.

informal

I like the relaxed and laid-back feeling of this high-up bar.

4

Researchers found that ambiance in the workplace significantly affects employee productivity levels.

academic

Scientists discovered that the environment at work has a big impact on how much work people do.

5

We need to invest in a more professional ambiance for our main reception area to impress clients.

business

We should make our front desk area look more business-like to make a good impression.

Word Family

Noun
ambiance
Adverb
ambiently
Adjective
ambient
Related
ambience

Common Collocations

cozy ambiance a warm and comfortable atmosphere
soak up the ambiance to enjoy and experience the surrounding atmosphere
create an ambiance to establish a specific mood in a place
romantic ambiance a feeling in a setting that inspires love or intimacy
sophisticated ambiance an atmosphere that feels elegant and high-class

Common Phrases

enhance the ambiance

to improve the feeling of a place

lacking in ambiance

having no character or atmosphere

total ambiance

the complete sensory experience of a setting

Often Confused With

ambiance vs ambulance

An ambulance is an emergency vehicle for the sick; ambiance is the mood of a room.

ambiance vs ambience

They are the same word; 'ambiance' is the French/US spelling, while 'ambience' is the standard British spelling.

📝

Usage Notes

The word is primarily used to describe indoor environments like restaurants, hotels, or homes rather than natural outdoor landscapes. It is a mass noun and usually does not have a plural form in common usage.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners often try to use it to describe a person's personality, but it specifically refers to the feel of a physical space.

💡

Memory Tip

Think of 'Ambient music' (background music). You listen to ambient music to change the ambiance of your room.

📖

Word Origin

From the French word 'ambiance', derived from the Latin 'ambire' meaning 'to go around' or 'surround'.

Grammar Patterns

Usually functions as an uncountable noun. Commonly preceded by descriptive adjectives like 'warm', 'cold', or 'electric'. The spelling 'ambience' is equally acceptable and more common in British English.
🌍

Cultural Context

In Western hospitality, 'ambiance' is a key marketing term used to justify higher prices in upscale restaurants and hotels.

Quick Quiz

The soft jazz and dim lighting created a very relaxing ________ in the lounge.

Correct!

The correct answer is: ambiance

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