WordGarden.ioarrival
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ərˈaɪvəl/
US
- /ərˈaɪvəl/
Meanings
Noun
the act or moment of reaching a place or destination
someone or something that has recently arrived; a newcomer or new addition
the point at which someone becomes prominent, important, or successful
Beyond the definition
An arrival isn't just getting somewhere—it is the moment you reach your destination or when someone or something appears. Think of the excitement of an anticipated arrival, like waiting for a loved one at the airport. It can mark the end of a physical journey, but also the beginning of something new. The sudden arrival of rain might ruin a picnic, while the timely arrival of help could save the day. The word hints at both movement and completion.
Imagine a ship returning after a long voyage—its arrival is celebrated with fanfare and relief. Or picture a baby's arrival into the world, a moment filled with joy and wonder. Sometimes, an arrival isn't planned; a surprise arrival can throw things into delightful chaos!
The word "arrival" signifies the act of reaching a destination, or the coming of someone or something to a particular place. It's more than just being somewhere; it's the culmination of a journey, the point where movement stops and presence begins. For example: "The train's arrival was delayed due to the storm," or "We eagerly awaited the arrival of our guests."
"Arrival" can refer to people, objects, ideas, or even abstract concepts like seasons. You might speak of the arrival of spring, bringing warmer weather and blooming flowers, or the arrival of a new technology that changes how we live.
The context often dictates the emotional weight of an "arrival." A delayed arrival can cause frustration, while a safe arrival after a dangerous journey brings immense relief. The word carries a sense of anticipation and completion. It's not simply being present, but becoming present after a period of absence or travel.
Sometimes "arrival" is used figuratively to describe the emergence or appearance of something new. "The arrival of a solution to the problem was a welcome relief." Or, "With his arrival on the scene, the team's morale improved dramatically."
In everyday practical language, you’ll also see "arrival" in schedules and travel settings: arrival time, an arrivals board, or the arrivals hall at an airport. And sometimes the word can stand for the person or thing that has arrived—"The new arrival was greeted warmly."
So whether it's a plane landing on a runway, a package delivered to your door, or an idea taking root in your mind—"arrival" marks the moment something becomes present and complete.
Examples
- 1
Train travel
We waited at the station for the train's arrival.
- 2
Arrival instructions
Please have your documents ready on arrival.
- Phraseon arrival
when you arrive
- 3
Timing
Her late arrival meant we had to start without her.
- 4
Airport area
I'll meet you outside Arrivals at Terminal 2.
- Domainin an airport, Arrivals
the area where arriving passengers come out
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Seasonal change
The arrival of warmer weather has lifted everyone's mood.
- 6
New baby
The whole family came to see the new arrival.
- Phrasethe new arrival
a baby that has just been born
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- arrival time
- on arrival
- late arrival
- arrivals hall
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- arrivalnoun
Forms
- arrivalspluralnoun