English Reference
Adjective

geopolitical

adj.
C1 Advanced US /ˌdʒioʊpəˈɫɪtɪkəɫ/ UK /dʒˌiːəʊpəlˈɪtɪkəl/ geopo·lit·i·cal

adj.relating to how a country's location, size, and resources affect its power and relationships with other nations.

adj.relating to the influence of geographical factors on international politics and strategic relationships between states.


SIMPLE

The war caused a major geopolitical shift in the region.

CONTEXTUAL

Energy security has become a central geopolitical concern as nations compete for access to limited natural gas reserves.

COMPLEX

The construction of the new canal is expected to alter the geopolitical landscape by providing a strategic maritime shortcut that bypasses several historically dominant trade hubs.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun; often modifies terms like 'stability', 'risk', or 'strategy'.

Usage geopolitical situation

Earlier this week, organisers announced that broadcasters will no longer be eligible to host the event if their state is involved in an "armed conflict" or "sensitive geopolitical situation".

BBC News· 14 Aug 2026

It stated that winning countries will also be disqualified from hosting if a "sensitive geopolitical situation" affects the "security, safety or stability of their state or immediate region".

BBC News· 13 Aug 2026

Common in science writing


From geo- (“geographical”) + political.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated