# America

/əˈmɛɹəkə/ (US) · CEFR A1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/america
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

the short name for the United States, a large country in North America. It can also refer to the two continents of North and South America together.

For teachers: a common shorthand for the United States of America; also refers to the landmasses of the Western Hemisphere comprising North and South America.

## Examples

- I am planning a trip to America next summer.
- Many people move to America in search of better job opportunities and a different way of life.
- The cultural influence of America extends globally through its media, technology, and political institutions, often shaping trends far beyond its own borders.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I live in the America" but "I live in America" — Unlike 'the United States', the name 'America' does not take a definite article.

## Usage notes

- When referring to the country, it is usually treated as a singular proper noun without an article.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.