commonwealth
word
Definition
A commonwealth is a political community or state formed for the public good. It is often used in official names of countries or groups of states, and sometimes refers to a republic or political union.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly formal and political. It appears far more often in official names like 'the Commonwealth of Nations' or 'the Commonwealth of Australia' than in everyday speech. Do not confuse it with general words like 'country' or 'community'; it has a specific historical and governmental tone.
Example Sentences
The country is officially called the Commonwealth of Dominica.
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The word commonwealth can mean a state that serves the public good.
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I always thought Commonwealth was just another word for country, but it's more specific than that.
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He mentioned the Commonwealth in his speech, but not everyone knew what he meant.
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When you see Commonwealth in a country's name, it usually signals a historical or political meaning.
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She studied the history of the British Commonwealth in school.
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