A2adjective1K

National

UK /["/ˈnæʃnəl/"]/US /["/ˈnæʃnəl/"]/

Definition

connected with a particular nation; shared by a whole nation

In simple words: related to a country

Examples

  • The National Museum is located in the capital city.
  • He was a national champion in swimming last year.
  • We celebrate National Day with a big parade every year.
  • The national anthem is played before every sports event.
  • The national government has announced a new policy.

Usage notes

Use 'national' when discussing matters that involve a whole country, such as 'national holiday' or 'national security'. It's appropriate in both formal and casual contexts, but avoid using it in very localised discussions where a more specific term is better.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a 'nation' with a flag — that's a 'national' thing!

Collocations

  • national anthem
  • national interest
  • national identity
  • national government

Synonyms

  • countrywide
  • state
  • public
  • domestic

Antonyms

  • local
  • regional

Common mistakes

  • Using 'national' when referring to local issues, like 'national park' for a local park.
  • Confusing 'national' with 'international'.
  • Mispronouncing the second syllable.