C1noun1K

Citizenship

UK /["/ˈsɪtɪzənʃɪp/"]/US /["/ˈsɪtɪzənʃɪp/"]/

Definition

the legal right to belong to a particular country

In simple words: Being a member of a country with rights and responsibilities.

Examples

  • They were granted full French citizenship.
  • You can apply for citizenship after five years' residency.
  • He was stripped of his citizenship when he criticized the government.
  • Ten years later, she chose to take Australian citizenship.
  • You will have to renounce citizenship of this country if you apply for citizenship of another.
  • an education that prepares young people for citizenship

Usage notes

Used in both formal and casual contexts. Appropriate when discussing rights, responsibilities, and legal status in a country. Avoid using in overly casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'city' in 'citizenship' — citizens belong to a city or country.

Collocations

  • full
  • dual
  • birthright
  • have
  • hold
  • confer

Synonyms

  • membership
  • nationality
  • status
  • belonging

Antonyms

  • foreignness
  • statelessness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'nationality' — they have different meanings.
  • Using it in a singular context when referring collectively.
  • Forgetting to mention legal aspects when defining.