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Glite Dictionary
Republic of Palau

Republic of Palau

1 4.9
An island country in the western Pacific made of many small islands known for clear seas and coral reefs
  • proper noun
: República de Palau
  • The Republic of Palau is known for its pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life.

Examples

  • Tourists from around the world visit the Republic of Palau for its world-class diving spots.

  • The Republic of Palau has a significant relationship with the United States due to historical ties.

  • After gaining independence, the Republic of Palau established diplomatic relations with several countries.

  • The Republic of Palau is known for its beautiful beaches.

  • Have you ever visited the Republic of Palau?

  • The Republic of Palau is famous for its stunning natural scenery, attracting many nature lovers.

  • Many international organizations recognize the Republic of Palau as a sovereign nation.

Synonyms

Palau
vsRepublic of Palau
11 3.4

An island country in the western Pacific made of over 200 islands

is the same but specifically associated politically with the United States
Belau
vsRepublic of Palau
9.1

An island country of over 200 islands in the western Pacific also called Palau

is the formal state name used in official and political contexts
Pelew
vsRepublic of Palau
  • Archaic
9.9

An old name for the chain of islands now called Palau

is the modern official name that replaced that older historical term

Surface Forms

Republic of Palau main

Morphology

republic + of + Palau

The phrase is compositionally transparent: 'republic' names a form of state and 'Palau' is the proper name, with 'of' linking them to indicate the state belonging to or named for Palau. This naming pattern (Republic of X) is common cross-linguistically and follows a regular grammatical pattern, so a B1 learner who knows the constituents will readily infer it refers to the country/state called Palau.

Etymology

Republic of Palau comes from the local Palauan name 'Belau', the word the island people used for their home, and when visitors heard it they wrote it down as 'Palau'. That's why the country's name points to the islands and the people who live there.