Word
territorial
Phoneticster·ri·to·ri·al, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌtɛɹɪˈtɔɹiəɫ/
UK/tˌɛɹɪtˈɔːɹɪəl/
Definitions
01protecting an area
B2 · Upper Intermediate Science
adj. behaving in a way that shows you want to protect your own area from others.
adj. displaying territoriality; defensive of a specific geographic area against intruders.
“Male birds often become very territorial during the spring to protect their nests.”
“The species is known for its highly territorial nature, with males engaging in complex vocal displays to ward off potential rivals from their feeding grounds.”
Synonyms
02relating to a region
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. relating to a specific piece of land or a particular country.
adj. of or relating to a specific geographic area or territory.
“The two countries are currently involved in a territorial dispute over the islands.”
“The treaty aimed to resolve long-standing territorial claims that had hindered economic cooperation between the neighbouring states for decades.”
Synonyms
03a part-time soldier
C1 · Advanced Countable noun British English
n. a member of a military force that is usually only active for home defence.
n. a non-professional member of a territorial army or home defence force.
“He spent his weekends training as a territorial in the local regiment.”
“The battalion was largely composed of territorials who were mobilised rapidly following the declaration of the national emergency.”
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“The gulf is not within the territorial United States.” “Coventry will not have the same territorial control or volume of chances they enjoyed last season either – they need players who can get them up the pitch.” Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Idioms
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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