Nationality: meaning, definitions and examples
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nationality
[ ˌnæʃəˈnæləti ]
country identity
The status of belonging to a particular nation, whether by birth or naturalization.
Synonyms
citizenship, descent, ethnicity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
nationality |
Used to refer to the country where a person was born or to which they belong by heritage or naturalization. It is often used in official documents or formal contexts.
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citizenship |
Specifically related to the legal status of being a recognized subject or national of a state, with rights and duties attached. Often used in legal or bureaucratic contexts.
|
ethnicity |
Focuses on social groupings, cultures, and identities based on shared traditions, language, or national experiences. Used in both social and academic discussions.
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descent |
Refers to a person’s ancestry or lineage. Used primarily when talking about ethnic background or heritage, rather than current legal status or nationality.
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Examples of usage
- She has dual nationality.
- What is your nationality?
- He is proud of his nationality.
national character
The distinctive qualities or characteristics that define a nation or its people.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
nationality |
Use this word when referring to the country where a person holds citizenship or legal status. It is often used in official and legal contexts.
|
culture |
This word is best to describe the customs, arts, social institutions, and achievements of a particular nation, people, or other social group.
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heritage |
Use this word to talk about traditions, achievements, beliefs, etc., that are part of the history of a group or nation. It often carries a sense of legacy passed down through generations.
|
identity |
This term is used to discuss characteristics, feelings, or beliefs that distinguish people or groups from others. It can be related to aspects like ethnicity, nationality, gender, or even personal interests.
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Examples of usage
- The cuisine reflects the nationality of the country.
- There is a sense of pride in their nationality.
Translations
Translations of the word "nationality" in other languages:
🇵🇹 nacionalidade
🇮🇳 राष्ट्रीयता
🇩🇪 Nationalität
🇮🇩 kewarganegaraan
🇺🇦 національність
🇵🇱 narodowość
🇯🇵 国籍 (kokuseki)
🇫🇷 nationalité
🇪🇸 nacionalidad
🇹🇷 milliyet
🇰🇷 국적 (gukjeok)
🇸🇦 جنسية (jinsiyya)
🇨🇿 národnost
🇸🇰 národnosť
🇨🇳 国籍 (guójí)
🇸🇮 državljanstvo
🇮🇸 þjóðerni
🇰🇿 ұлттық
🇬🇪 ეროვნება
🇦🇿 milliyyət
🇲🇽 nacionalidad
Etymology
The word 'nationality' originated in the early 17th century from the French word 'nationalité', which is derived from the Latin word 'nationalis' meaning 'of or pertaining to a nation'. The concept of nationality has evolved over time to encompass not just legal citizenship but also cultural identity and belonging.
See also: international, multinational, national, nationalism, nationalist, nationalistic, nationalization, nationalize, nationally, nationals, nationwide, transnational.
Word Frequency Rank
At #7,141 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.
- ...
- 7138 compassion
- 7139 benefited
- 7140 diversion
- 7141 nationality
- 7142 boiled
- 7143 innocence
- 7144 domination
- ...