# nationalization

/ˌnæʃənəɫəˈzeɪʃən/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nationalization
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

the act of a government taking control of a company or industry that was once owned by private people. This usually happens to make sure a service is available to everyone.

For teachers: the process by which a government takes ownership of an industry, business, or property from private entities. Often used in the context of public utilities or strategic sectors.

## Examples

- The government announced the nationalization of the railway system.
- Economists debated whether the nationalization of the energy sector would lead to better service for the public or less efficiency.
- The sudden nationalization of the banking sector sent shockwaves through the international market, as investors feared a loss of property rights and a shift toward state-controlled capitalism.

---

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.