What does "nationals" mean?

1. (citizens of a country) people who are citizens of a specific country. 2. (sports competition) a major sports competition where the best players in a country compete.

How do you use "nationals"?

Usually plural; often preceded by a country name or the adjective 'foreign'. Usually plural; often functions as a shorthand for 'national championships'.

nationals

US //ˈnæʃənəɫz// UK //nˈæʃənəlz// na·tion·als

1 citizens of a country (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

people who are citizens of a specific country.

citizens or subjects of a particular nation, often used in legal or official contexts regarding residency or travel.

Example

The embassy is responsible for helping its own nationals when they are abroad.

Example

The treaty ensures that foreign nationals residing within the territory are granted the same legal protections as local citizens.

Usage

Usually plural; often preceded by a country name or the adjective 'foreign'.
- citizens
- subjects
- foreigners
- aliens
2 sports competition (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Informal Sport

a major sports competition where the best players in a country compete.

a nationwide sporting championship or tournament involving competitors from across a single country.

Example

She practiced every day because she wanted to win the swimming nationals.

Example

After winning the regional qualifiers, the team traveled to the capital to compete in the nationals against the country's top-ranked athletes.

Usage

Usually plural; often functions as a shorthand for 'national championships'.
- championship
- tournament

Last updated June 20, 2026