Provinces: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to a larger area that might span multiple administrative divisions, often defined by certain geographic, cultural, or historical characteristics.

• The Pacific Northwest is a region known for its rainy weather.
• The wine-producing region of France is renowned worldwide.

Typically used in countries like the United States, Mexico, or India to describe a larger administrative division that has its own government. The term can also refer to a country as a whole in international contexts.

• California is a state on the west coast of the United States.
• Germany is a sovereign state in Europe.

Often used to describe a geographic area that is under the jurisdiction of a specific government but might not have the full rights of a state or province. This term is frequently used for areas that are not fully integrated into a country, such as colonies or dependent areas.

• Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States.
• Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.

Use this word to refer to administrative divisions within a country that have their own local governments. It typically implies a degree of autonomy from the central government.

• Canada is divided into ten provinces, each with its own premier.
• The economic policies vary significantly between the provinces.

This word often refers to a region that is under the jurisdiction of a country but is not fully integrated as a state or province. It can also refer to any defined area of land.

• Guam is a U.S. territory in the Pacific Ocean.
• The military is protecting the national territory during the conflict.

This term is typically used when referring to a territory that is controlled and governed by a distant country, often implying a historical context of colonization. It can carry negative connotations related to colonialism and oppression.

• India was a British colony until 1947.
• The colony struggled for independence for many years.