Mainland Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Used to refer to the principal landmass of a country or region, excluding its islands. Often used when distinguishing between islands and the larger land area.

• She flew from the island back to the mainland.
• Mainland residents often visit the coastal islands during holidays.

Refers to any of the world's main continuous expanses of land (e.g., Africa, Asia, Europe). Used when discussing geographical divisions on a global scale.

• Africa is a continent rich in cultures and natural resources.
• They traveled across the continent of Europe by train.

A more technical or formal term for a large continuous extent of land, typically in scientific or geographic discussions.

• The mainland mass of Eurasia is the largest on Earth.
• Researchers studied the biodiversity of the mainland mass compared to surrounding islands.