What does nationally mean?
Nationally is an adverb meaning in relation to a nation as a whole, throughout a country, or at the level of national government. It is commonly used to describe policies, events, organizations, broadcasts, awards, and concerns that extend beyond a particular city, province, or community. For example, a television programme may be described as nationally televised when it is shown across the country rather than only in one region. The word can also emphasize a collective or governmental perspective: a decision may be nationally significant even if it directly affects only certain areas. In public discussion, “nationally” often carries an institutional or political tone, but it is not limited to government contexts. It differs from “international,” which concerns multiple countries, and from “local,” which concerns a specific place.
adverbIn a way that relates to or affects a nation as a whole, rather than to a particular region or locality. It can also mean throughout a nation or at the level of national government.
- At the level of a nation as a whole; nationwide.
- In relation to the interests, identity, or authority of a nation.
- Throughout a nation; across the country.
"The policy was implemented nationally, despite strong opposition in several provinces."
"The charity provides support nationally, from major cities to remote communities."
"The issue was discussed nationally before the government introduced a national policy."
Nationally means the difference between what matters to a country and what matters to a single neighbourhood.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nationally come from?
“Nationally” was formed in English by adding the adverbial suffix “-ly” to “national.” The adjective “national” derives from “nation,” which comes through Old French from the Latin “natio,” meaning birth or origin. Related English forms include “nationality” and “nationwide,” which express related ideas of belonging to a nation or extending across a nation.
Related word forms
How nationally is actually used
Generally formal or neutral in tone. It is especially common in political, institutional, media, and public-policy contexts. When it means throughout a country, it is often interchangeable with “nationwide” or “countrywide,” although “nationally” can also emphasize the level of government or national identity.
Easily confused with nationally
Nationally refers to matters within one nation, whereas international refers to dealings or connections involving multiple nations.
Nationally describes the scope of a nation as a whole, while local refers to a specific area or community.