# Ukraine

/juˈkɹeɪn/ (US) · CEFR A2 · Noun

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

## Definition

a large country in Eastern Europe known for its rich history and farming. It is the second-largest country on the continent by area.

For teachers: a sovereign state in Eastern Europe, bordered by Russia to the east and Poland to the west. It is a unitary republic and a major global exporter of grain.

## Examples

- Ukraine is famous for its beautiful sunflower fields.
- Many international students choose to study in Ukraine because of its historic universities and diverse culture.
- As a major agricultural powerhouse, Ukraine plays a critical role in global food security, particularly regarding the supply of wheat and sunflower oil to international markets.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I am visiting the Ukraine" but "I am visiting Ukraine" — Modern English usage treats Ukraine as a proper name without the definite article 'the'.

## Usage notes

- Proper noun; used without a definite article ('the') in modern English, though 'the Ukraine' was common in the past.

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