What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nation
Example
The Maori are an indigenous nation of New Zealand. [nation: noun]
Example
The United Nations is an international organization that promotes peace among nations. [nations: plural noun]
Example
The nation mourned the loss of its beloved leader. [nation: singular noun]
state
Example
The United States is a federal state with 50 individual states. [state: noun]
Example
The state of emergency was declared due to the natural disaster. [state: noun]
Example
She was in a state of shock after hearing the news. [state: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
State is more commonly used than nation in everyday language, especially in a political or legal context. Nation is less common and is typically used in a cultural or historical context.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nation and state?
State is generally considered more formal than nation, as it is often used in legal or political contexts. However, both terms can be used in formal or informal settings depending on the context.
