# Switzerland

/ˈswɪtsɝɫənd/ (US)

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

## Senses

### 1. the country

noun · CEFR A1

a mountainous country in Central Europe that is famous for its neutrality, watches, and chocolate.

For teachers: a landlocked federal republic in Central Europe, officially the Swiss Confederation.

- Many people visit Switzerland in the winter to go skiing in the Alps.
- Switzerland maintains a policy of armed neutrality and has not been in a state of war internationally since 1815.

### 2. a neutral party

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal

a person or group that refuses to take sides in an argument or fight.

For teachers: a figurative reference to a person, organisation, or state that maintains a position of strict neutrality during a dispute.

- I am staying out of your argument with Sarah; I am Switzerland.
- In the ongoing office politics, the HR manager attempted to play Switzerland, refusing to endorse either department's proposal.

Usage: Usually used as a predicate nominative after the verb 'to be'.

## Examples

- Switzerland is famous for its high mountains and delicious cheese.
- Many international organizations have their headquarters in Switzerland because of the country's long history of political neutrality.
- The unique political structure of Switzerland allows for a high degree of regional autonomy among its twenty-six cantons, reflecting the nation's diverse linguistic and cultural heritage.

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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.