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territorial

[ˌterɪˈtɔːriəl]

territorial Definition

  • 1relating to the ownership of an area of land or sea
  • 2relating to a particular territory and its inhabitants
  • 3defensive behavior exhibited by animals to protect their territory

Using territorial: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "territorial" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The territorial dispute between the two countries has been ongoing for decades.

  • Example

    The territorial government is responsible for managing local affairs.

  • Example

    The cat displayed territorial behavior when another feline entered its space.

territorial Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for territorial

Phrases with territorial

  • the waters adjacent to a country's coast, over which it exercises sovereignty

    Example

    The ship was stopped and searched in the territorial waters of the neighboring country.

  • a part-time military force composed of volunteers who receive training for emergency situations

    Example

    He joined the territorial army to serve his country while still maintaining his civilian job.

  • an innate drive to acquire and defend a territory

    Example

    The territorial imperative is a common trait among many animal species.

Origins of territorial

from Latin 'terra', meaning 'earth'

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Summary: territorial in Brief

The term 'territorial' [ˌterɪˈtɔːriəl] refers to ownership or control of land or sea, as well as to a particular territory and its inhabitants. It can also describe defensive behavior exhibited by animals to protect their territory. Examples include 'The territorial dispute between the two countries has been ongoing for decades,' and 'The cat displayed territorial behavior when another feline entered its space.' Phrases like 'territorial waters' and 'territorial army' extend the concept, while 'territorial imperative' describes an innate drive to acquire and defend a territory.

How do native speakers use this expression?