British Isles (terminology)

The various terms used to describe the different (and sometimes overlapping) geographical and political regions of the islands traditionally referred to collectively as the British Isles are often a source of confusion for people from other parts of the world, and even for the inhabitants of those islands themselves. The purpose of this article is to explain the meanings of and inter-relationships between those terms.

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The primary points are:

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• Great Britain (as a geographical term) = the largest island
• Great Britain (as a political entity) = England + Wales + Scotland
• The United Kingdom (a country) = England + Wales + Scotland + Northern Ireland
• The British Isles (a geographical term) = Great Britain + Ireland + many smaller surrounding islands
• Ireland (as a geographical term) = the second largest island
• Ireland (as a political term, a country) = Republic of Ireland
• Britain (as a geographical term) = Great Britain
• Britain (as a political term) = the entire United Kingdom, though this is slightly inaccurate (Great Britain is sometimes also used in this way)

Unfortunately, these various terms can not only be confusing in themselves (partly due to the similarity between some of the actual words used), but also because they are often used loosely or inaccurately. Furthermore, to some extent the choice of terminology, especially in relation to Ireland, is determined by political stance.

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In everyday and even official use the terms are often used inaccurately. Alternative terms exist and in some cases — especially concerning Ireland — the choice of terminology depends on the speaker's political positions. The term 'British Isles' has been regarded as a somewhat politically charged term, particularly with respect to the undisputed and complete independence of the Republic of Ireland. Many encyclopaedia in use today prefer the terminology 'British Isles and Ireland', though 'British Isles' has remained dominant through persistence of use. To complicate matters, even those who make geopolitical distinctions often ignore the social ones, calling all people of the region English or British. In addition, there are historical names which may add to the confusion.

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