Nation or Country?

Welcome! this week Ask the teacherIn this article, we will answer a question about the difference between “nation” and “state”.

A question

Hello VOA Learning English,

Can you help and explain what is the difference in usage between ‘nation’ and ‘country’?

thanks with my regards,

Siyang Hao

Answer

Welcome!

That’s a great question. These words are often used as SynonymsBut there are differences. Let’s take a look at how we use these words and find some examples to help us understand.

Let’s start with the “country”.

“State” is an organized political unit. We often describe “countries” as “states,” especially when talking about politics. Joshua Keating, former editor of the site Foreign Policy He says that there are many things needed to become a state.

A country needs land or land. After that, people must live there permanently. Then the international community must recognize the borders or limits of the country.

After that, the country should be full sovereignty Or freedom of government and recognition by other countries. Finally, the state is governed by a government or a political body.

Here are some examples of how the word “country” can be used in a sentence.

There are no countries in Antarctica, but some countries like Chile and New Zealand claim territories of it.