英倫三島

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Chinese

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England; London in England three island
trad. (英倫三島) 英倫
simp. (英伦三岛) 英伦
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Pronunciation

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Proper noun

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英倫三島

  1. (set phrase, informal, proscribed) United Kingdom; British Isles; Crown Dependencies; Great Britain, etc. (inaccurate and non-specific geographical designation)

Usage notes

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The phrase likely originated from unclear or erroneous concepts by some 19th-century writers. It is commonly interpreted as Isle of Man also included besides the two main islands, yet unconvincing. It is still in current usage as a set phrase, but is avoided where it is desirable to maintain geographic clarity and accuracy.