state
State (noun) means the particular condition someone or something is in at a given time. Example: “The house was left in a terrible state after the party.”
How to use state
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA condition something is in, a country or political region, or (as a verb) to say something clearly.
Word forms
- Singular
- states
- Plural
- states
- Past tense
- stated
- Comparative
- more state
- Superlative
- most state
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The house was left in a terrible _____ after the party.
Etymology
From Latin status, "manner of standing, condition," by way of Old French estat — the same root that gives us estate and status.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for state
See all rhymes for state →Frequently asked questions
What does “state” mean?
The word “state” means the particular condition someone or something is in at a given time. In plain terms, a condition something is in, a country or political region, or (as a verb) to say something clearly.
How do you pronounce “state”?
“State” is pronounced stayt (/steɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “state” in a sentence?
Here is “state” used in a sentence: “The house was left in a terrible state after the party.”
What is another word for “state”?
Words with a similar meaning to “state” include condition, position, scenario, set up, shape and situation.
What part of speech is “state”?
Depending on how it is used, “state” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “state” come from?
The word “state” comes from Latin. From Latin status, "manner of standing, condition," by way of Old French estat — the same root that gives us estate and status.
Is “state” a common word?
“State” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “state” have?
“State” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the particular condition someone or something is in at a given time.
What is the difference between 'state' and 'condition'?
The two are close synonyms for how something is at a given moment. 'State' often describes an overall or temporary way of being — 'a state of panic,' 'the state of the economy.' 'Condition' tends to stress physical shape or a specific requirement — 'good condition,' 'a medical condition.' In many sentences they are interchangeable.
What is the difference between 'state' meaning a condition and 'state' meaning a country or region?
They are spelled the same but unrelated in meaning. This 'state' means the condition something is in — 'a fragile state.' The other 'state' refers to a nation or a governed region within one, such as a US state like Texas. Only the surrounding context tells you which sense is meant.
What is an example of 'state' as a condition?
You might speak of a 'state of mind,' the 'state of your health,' or a room left in 'a terrible state.' Each describes the condition of someone or something at a particular time. The word covers physical, mental, and emotional conditions alike — 'a calm state' or 'a state of disrepair.'
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