B2adjective 2K

Federal

UK /["/ˈfedərəl/"]/ US /["/ˈfedərəl/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

having a system of government in which the individual states of a country have control over their own affairs, but are controlled by a central government for national decisions, etc.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Related to the central government of a country.

Examples

• a federal republic
• a federal law
• state and federal income taxes
• New federal regulations have been introduced.
• On 15th February a federal judge ruled in their favour.
• There is a plan to introduce random drug testing of federal workers.
• We will continue federal funding for the arts.

Usage notes

Use 'federal' when discussing government systems, laws, or funds. It is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, but usually more common in formal political discussions.

Grammar pattern

federal + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'federation' — a group united under a central government.

Collocations

• federal government
• federal law
• federal funds

Synonyms

• national
• central
• governmental

Antonyms

• state
• local
• provincial

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'federation' - 'federal' refers to the government, while 'federation' refers to a group of states.
• Using 'federal' as an adjective without a noun, e.g., saying 'the federal' instead of 'the federal government.'
• Mispronouncing it as if it rhymes with 'medal' instead of 'federal' with a short 'e' sound.