American: meaning, definitions and examples

Use to describe something or someone from the United States. Common in general contexts.

• She is an American citizen.
• The American culture is diverse.

Use as a pronoun to refer to the first-person plural. Can also be used as an abbreviation for the United States but is informal and often found in casual communication.

• They invited us to the party.
• I think us kids should stick together.

Use as an abbreviation for the United States of America. Common in formal contexts and writings.

• The president of the USA is giving a speech today.
• The USA won the most medals in the Olympics.

Use to describe something that has been influenced or adapted to American customs and culture. Often has a slightly negative connotation implying loss of original identity.

• The restaurant has an Americanized version of the original Italian dish.
• Over time, the small town became more Americanized.

Again, this word can be used in a variety of contexts and is a general term. It may duplicate the previous entry without adding new information.

• Being an American just means you were born in the USA.
• He has an American accent.

This term is typically used in legal or formal scenarios to emphasize the legal status or nationality of a person.

• As a US citizen, you have certain rights and responsibilities.
• A US citizen can hold ordinary and diplomatic passports.

This term is informal and can have a negative or playful connotation. It is often used by non-Americans, particularly British people, to refer to someone from the United States.

• The Brits often call Americans 'yanks' in a teasing manner.
• He's just another loudmouthed yank.

This is a formal term and is often used in legal or government contexts. It can also refer to people associated with outlying territories of the US.

• A US national is eligible for a US passport.
• US nationals, including those from Guam, are subject to specific regulations.