B1nounpoliticshistory
US/ˈnæʃ.ən.əl.ɪst/
UK/ˈnæʃ.ən.əl.ɪst/
a person who strongly supports their own country, often wanting it to be independent or more powerful
In context
The nationalist party won seats in several regions of the country.
He was a fierce nationalist who refused to learn any foreign language.
Nationalists in the region have demanded a vote on independence.
Words that go with nationalist
adjective + noun
- Scottish nationalistThe Scottish nationalist leader spoke after the vote.
- hard-line nationalistA hard-line nationalist attacked the peace deal.
noun + noun
- nationalist movementThe nationalist movement grew rapidly in the 1930s.
- nationalist partyA small nationalist party holds the balance of power.
- nationalist leaderThe nationalist leader called for new elections.
noun + preposition
- rise of nationalistsAnalysts worry about the rise of nationalists in Europe.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He is a very nationalist.Correct: He is a very strong nationalist. / He is very nationalistic.