National
ˈnæʃənəl
Definitions
2 meaningsRelating to or characteristic of a nation.
ˈnæʃənəl
Relating to a nation or the people within it.
The national anthem was played at the beginning of the ceremony.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're cheering for a team that represents your whole country! That's 'national' – it's about things that belong to a nation, like its team, its anthem, or its holidays. It's like saying, 'this belongs to all of us!'
👶 For kids: Belonging to a country or people.
More Examples
The national park offers stunning views of the landscape.
She felt a strong sense of national pride during the Olympics.
How It's Used
"The national government is responsible for foreign policy."
"The national team represented the country in the World Cup."
Owned, controlled, or supported by a nation's government.
ˈnæʃənəl
Owned or supported by a nation.
The national bank regulates the country's financial system.
💡 Simply: If a government runs or supports something, like a park or an airline, that's national! It means it's for everyone in the country, not just a private company. Think of the national parks, they are national becausethey are for the whole nation.
👶 For kids: Owned by the country.
More Examples
The national airline provides domestic and international flights.
National resources, like forests, are protected by law.
How It's Used
"The national debt is a significant economic factor."
"National airlines often receive government support."
Idioms & expressions
national interest
The benefit or well-being of a nation as a whole.
"The government made the decision in the national interest."
national debt
The total amount of money that a government owes to its creditors
"The government is trying to reduce the national debt."
From Late Latin *nationalis*, from *natio* ('nation'). The term gained prominence with the rise of nation-states.
The word 'national' gained popularity during the 18th and 19th centuries, coinciding with the rise of nationalism and the formation of nation-states.
Memory tip
Think of the 'nation' and what applies to all its citizens and aspects.