State: meaning, definitions and examples

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state

[steɪt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

government

A politically organized body of people under a single government, especially a nation.

Synonyms

commonwealth, country, nation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
state	Used to describe a large area of land under a single government, often within a larger country. California is a state within the United States Each state has its own laws
nation	Describes a large group of people united by common descent, history, culture, or language, inhabiting a particular territory. The Japanese nation has a strong cultural identity Many nations came together to form the United Nations
country	Refers to a nation with its own government, occupying a particular territory. France is a beautiful country with a rich history Canada is the second-largest country by total area
commonwealth	Often used to describe a political community founded for the common good. Sometimes refers to independent countries or states that have similar goals or interests. The Commonwealth of Australia consists of six states Puerto Rico is a commonwealth associated with the United States

Examples of usage

The United States is a federal state with 50 individual states.
The state of California is known for its beaches and sunny weather.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

condition

The particular condition that someone or something is in at a specific time.

Synonyms

condition, position, situation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
state	Incorrect to repeat as it was already used above.
condition	Usually implies the physical or functional status, often regarding health or material objects. Can be used in both positive and negative senses. The car is in excellent condition. Her medical condition requires immediate attention.
situation	Describes a set of circumstances in which someone or something finds themselves, often implying a dynamic or changing aspect. The current economic situation is concerning. We need to assess the situation before making a decision.
position	Relates to the location or placement of something or someone, either physically or within an organization or system. He is in a good position to negotiate. Check the position of the chair before you sit down.

Examples of usage

She is in a state of shock after hearing the news.
The house was in a state of disrepair when they bought it.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

express

To express something definitely or clearly in speech or writing.

Synonyms

assert, declare, express.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
state	Used in formal settings when conveying information or facts clearly and directly. The document states the company's policies. He stated his willingness to participate in the project.
express	Commonly used for sharing thoughts, feelings, or emotions in a less formal and more personal way. He expressed his gratitude in a heartfelt speech. She expressed her concerns about the new policy.
declare	Used in official or public announcements, can denote a formal proclamation. The president declared a state of emergency. They declared their love for each other in front of everyone.
assert	Often used when someone is strongly affirming or defending their opinion or rights. She asserted her authority over the team. He asserted his innocence in the matter.

Examples of usage

She stated her opinion on the matter during the meeting.
The witness stated that he saw the suspect at the scene of the crime.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'state' comes from the Latin 'status' meaning 'standing' or 'condition'.
In Middle English, it appeared as 'state', referring to a person's condition or rank in society.
The modern political meaning has evolved from medieval concepts of governance and territory.

Sociology

In sociology, a state's role is crucial in maintaining order, managing resources, and exercising authority.
The concept of the state can include its specific legal frameworks, institutions, and political power.
Different forms of governance (like democracies or monarchies) define the relationship between citizens and the state.

Science

In physics, 'state' refers to the condition of matter, such as solid, liquid, or gas.
The state of a system can change based on temperature and pressure, influencing physical properties.
Understanding states of matter is fundamental in chemistry and helps in designing various materials.

Pop Culture

The term 'state' frequently appears in popular media, used to denote social and political discussions in films.
In video games, players often navigate different states, representing levels, conditions, or environments.
The television show 'The State' satirically portrayed various characters and their relations within a fictional government setting.

Psychology

In psychology, emotional 'states' can influence behavior and decision-making.
The concept of mental states helps psychologists understand consciousness and cognition.
Mindfulness practices often focus on identifying one's current emotional state for better mental health.

Translations

Translations of the word "state" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estado

🇮🇳 राज्य

🇩🇪 Zustand

🇮🇩 keadaan

🇺🇦 держава

🇵🇱 stan

🇯🇵 状態 (じょうたい)

🇫🇷 état

🇪🇸 estado

🇹🇷 durum

🇰🇷 상태 (sangtae)

🇸🇦 حالة

🇨🇿 stav

🇸🇰 stav

🇨🇳 状态 (zhuàngtài)

🇸🇮 država

🇮🇸 ástand

🇰🇿 мемлекет

🇬🇪 სახელმწიფო

🇦🇿 dövlət

🇲🇽 estado

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #102, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.

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99 system
100 how
101 against
102 state
103 right
104 water
105 order
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