Definition of National
Quick Meaning of National
Belonging to an entire country, not just one city or region.
Detailed Definition of National
Relating to or belonging to a whole country or its people.
How to Pronounce National
Stress pattern: Oos (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress first syllable: NAH-shuh-nul. The 'tio' becomes /ʃən/ sound.
Origin and Etymology of National
From Latin nationalis, from natio (birth, nation).
How to Use National in a Sentence
Each example shows “national” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
-
“The national flag represents the whole country.”
-
“National news covers events across the entire nation.”
-
“She won a national competition, not just regional.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of National
Common Synonyms for National
Smart Synonyms for National — When to Use Each
- federal
- emphasizing government structure and authority
- nationwide
- emphasizing coverage across the entire country
Antonyms of National
Common Collocations with National
These phrases pair with “national” in everyday English:
- national anthem
- national park
- national government
- national team
Common Mistakes When Using National
Even fluent speakers slip up with “national”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He works in a national office in just one city.
- ✓ Correct: He works in a local office in just one city.
- Why: National means the whole country, not one place. Use local for one city.
- ✗ Wrong: This is a national restaurant in our town.
- ✓ Correct: This is a local restaurant in our town.
- Why: National means a chain across the country; local means only in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions About National
What is the meaning of "National"?
Belonging to an entire country, not just one city or region.
How do you pronounce "National"?
The IPA is /ˈnæʃənəl/. Stress first syllable: NAH-shuh-nul. The 'tio' becomes /ʃən/ sound.
What part of speech is "National"?
"National" is an adjective at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "National"?
Common synonyms include country-wide, nationwide, federal.
How do you use "National" in a sentence?
For example: "The national flag represents the whole country."