In an address, PL typically stands for Place. It is a common abbreviation used in postal addresses, on maps, and on street signs to denote a specific type of thoroughfare or location.
Understanding "Place" in Addresses
A "Place" often refers to a street that might be shorter than a typical street, sometimes a cul-de-sac, or a road with a specific local characteristic that distinguishes it from a standard street, avenue, or road. While the full capitalization "PL" is sometimes seen, the more common and standardized abbreviation is "Pl."
Key aspects of "Place" as an address component:
- Abbreviation Convenience: Abbreviations like "Pl." or "PL" are widely used for brevity and standardization in mailing addresses, helping to streamline postal services and navigation.
- Street Designation: "Place" functions as a street type designator, similar to "Street," "Avenue," or "Road." It helps pinpoint a specific location within a city or town.
- Usage: You'll encounter "PL" or "Pl." on official documents, online forms, GPS systems, and physical signage.
Common Street Type Abbreviations
Understanding common address abbreviations is crucial for accurate mail delivery and navigation. Here's a table of frequently used street type abbreviations:
| Full Street Type | Common Abbreviation(s) |
|---|---|
| Avenue | Ave, Av |
| Boulevard | Blvd |
| Circle | Cir |
| Court | Ct |
| Drive | Dr |
| Lane | Ln |
| Place | Pl |
| Road | Rd |
| Street | St |
| Terrace | Ter |
(Note: While some abbreviations might have variations, these are the most widely accepted and recommended by postal services for efficiency.)
Why Are Abbreviations Used?
Abbreviations in addresses serve several practical purposes:
- Space Saving: They conserve space on envelopes, labels, and forms.
- Standardization: They create a uniform system for addressing, making it easier for automated sorting machines and postal workers to process mail quickly and accurately.
- Clarity: By following established postal guidelines, these abbreviations help prevent confusion and ensure that mail reaches its intended destination.
Practical Implications
When writing an address, especially for mail, it's generally best to use the standard abbreviations recommended by your national postal service (e.g., the USPS Publication 28 for the United States). While "PL" is commonly understood as "Place," using "Pl." might be preferred in formal contexts or when strict adherence to postal guidelines is required. Regardless, both are generally recognized to mean "Place."
Address Components
