# nationalism

/ˈnæʃənəˌɫɪzəm/ (US) · /nˈæʃənəlˌɪzəm/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nationalism
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 2. desire for independence

noun · CEFR B2

the desire by a group of people who share a language or culture to form their own independent country.

For teachers: the advocacy of or support for the political independence of a particular nation or people. Often used in the context of anti-colonial or separatist movements.

- The rise of Scottish nationalism has led to many debates about leaving the United Kingdom.
- Nineteenth-century Europe was defined by various waves of ethnic nationalism that eventually dismantled several multi-ethnic empires.

Usage: Often followed by a specific region or ethnic group name.

### 3. Irish political movement

noun · CEFR C1 · British English · Dialect

the political belief that Northern Ireland should leave the UK and join the Republic of Ireland.

For teachers: the political movement advocating for a united Ireland. In this specific regional context, it is contrasted with 'unionism'.

- He grew up in a family with a long history of Irish nationalism.
- The peace process required careful negotiation between the traditions of Ulster unionism and Irish nationalism to reach a power-sharing agreement.

Usage: Usually capitalised as 'Nationalism' when referring to the specific political identity in Northern Ireland.

Teaching tip: This sense is highly specific to the politics of the British Isles; outside of this context, the word follows the more general definitions.

## Examples

- The politician's speech appealed to a strong sense of nationalism.
- During the nineteenth century, rising nationalism across Europe led many ethnic groups to demand their own independent states.
- While patriotism is generally viewed as a benign affection for one's homeland, nationalism often carries an exclusionary edge, prioritising domestic interests over international cooperation.

---

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.