English Reference

Word

united

Phoneticsunit·ed

US/juˈnaɪtɪd/

UK/juːnˈaɪtɪd/

Definitions

01joined together

A2 · Elementary

adj. joined together to form a single group, organization, or country.

adj. combined or joined to form a single entity or political unit.

“The two small companies became a united business last year.”

“The treaty aimed to create a united economic zone, allowing for the seamless movement of goods and services across previously closed borders.”

Synonyms

joinedcombinedmerged

Antonyms

dividedsplit

02acting together

B1 · Intermediate

adj. when people agree and work together to reach a goal.

adj. characterized by harmony or agreement in aim, opinion, or action.

“The neighbors remained united in their fight to save the local park.”

“Despite their internal disagreements, the coalition members presented a united front during the press conference to reassure the public.”

Synonyms

unanimoussolidaryconcerted

Antonyms

disagreeingconflicted

03sports team name

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun Sports British English

n. a common name for sports teams that were formed by joining smaller clubs together.

n. a common suffix or component in the names of association football clubs, typically signifying a historical merger of two or more teams.

“He has been a loyal fan of Manchester United since he was a child.”

“The local derby between City and United always draws a massive crowd, regardless of their current standing in the league table.”

Usage

Often used in the past participle form 'united' as an adjective; as a verb, it can be used transitively with an object or intransitively.

Pitfall

They united with each other for win.

They united to win.

When expressing purpose after 'unite', use an infinitive ('to win') rather than 'for' followed by a base verb.

This entry

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.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL 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: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Very common
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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