grand national: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Yes, when referring specifically to the horse race at Aintree, it is a proper noun and should be capitalized as 'the Grand National'. The generic use ('a grand national event') is not.

Rarely. While possible to describe any major national event metaphorically (e.g., 'the election was a political grand national'), this usage is uncommon and the term is overwhelmingly understood as the proper name of the race.

It is famous for its unique, large, and challenging fences like Becher's Brook and The Chair, which test both horse and jockey to the extreme, making it one of the most demanding steeplechases in the world.

General awareness is low unless they follow horse racing or British culture. In the US, the Kentucky Derby is the equivalent premier horse racing event.

A famous and prestigious annual horse race held at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, England, known for its challenging fences.

Grand national is usually formal when referring to the specific event; informal when used generically for major national events. in register.

Grand national: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɡrænd ˈnæʃnəl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɡrænd ˈnæʃənəl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.