Countries & Nationalities

The word 'Nationality' is not often used in spoken English. It is a formal and official word and it appears more frequently in written English. You will find the word 'Nationality' is used a lot in the travel industry and for immigration.

We almost never say: What is your nationality?

We usually say: Where are you from? OR Where do you come from?

To tell someone your nationality you DON'T say: My nationality is Chilean.

You say: I'm Chilean

Remember

I am from Chile.

To Be + from + country

I am Chilean.

To Be + Nationality

Below is a list of countries with the appropriate nationality. The Language that appears is the main language that is spoken in the country. We have not included all the languages that they may speak in that country.

*You will notice that people from United States have the nationality 'American'. Some people from other parts of the American continent (especially Central and South America) tend not to like the word American for people from the United States. You will find that they will call them North American.