B2noun2K

Citizen

UK /["/ˈsɪtɪzn/"]/US /["/ˈsɪtɪzn/"]/

Definition

a person who has the legal right to belong to a particular country

In simple words: A member of a country or community.

Examples

  • Every citizen has the right to vote in elections held in their country.
  • As a good citizen, he always participates in community service.
  • The city has a strong program to help new citizens adapt to their new environment.
  • The organization aims to promote civic responsibilities among citizens.
  • In some countries, being a citizen means you have access to public healthcare.

Usage notes

Used to describe someone who legally belongs to a country. It's formal and appropriate in legal or political contexts but should be avoided in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

citizen + of + country

Memory hint

Think of 'city' — a citizen is a person who belongs to a city or country.

Collocations

  • full
  • naturalized
  • British
  • somebody’s fellow citizens
  • full
  • naturalized
  • British
  • somebody’s fellow citizens

Synonyms

  • national
  • inhabitant
  • member
  • local

Antonyms

  • noncitizen
  • foreigner

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'resident' — a resident may not be a citizen.
  • Using 'citizenship' when 'citizen' is correct.
  • Using 'a citizen' when talking about a group.