state

The condition of someone or something at a particular time.

• The house is in a poor state.
• Lack of sleep affected her mental state.
• We found the kitchen in a terrible state.

How to use it: in a state of something (She was in a state of shock.); in a good/bad state (The road is in a bad state.)

Similar words: condition

Common phrases: state of something, poor state, mental state

A country with its own government, or the government and public services of a country.

• They want an independent state.
• The state provides free education for children.
• Several states signed the peace agreement.

Similar words: country, nation

Common phrases: independent state, state power, state education

A large area within a country that has its own government.

• Texas is a large state.
• Each state has its own government.
• We drove through three states on our holiday.

Common phrases: state capital, state government, out of state

Great ceremony, dignity, or impressive display, especially connected with royalty or important public occasions.

• The king entered the hall in state.
• The late president lay in state for two days.
• The royal guests travelled in state through the city.

How to use it: in state (The queen arrived in state.)

Similar words: pomp, ceremony, splendor

Common phrases: in state, lie in state

To say or write something clearly as a fact.

• The report states that sales increased.
• She stated her reasons for leaving.
• Did the witness state what happened next?

How to use it: state that… (The report states that prices have risen.); state something (Please state the facts clearly.)

Similar words: declare, say, assert

Common phrases: state the facts, state clearly, state that something

To give information clearly in speech or writing.

• Please state your name.
• He stated his address on the form.
• Have you stated which course you want?

How to use it: state something (Please state your full address.); state what/where/how… (The form asks you to state where you live.)

Similar words: give, specify, indicate

Common phrases: state your name, state your address, state your preference