1. The formal name of the country commonly referred to as USA is the United States of America. Abbreviated as the United States or America, the term "the States" is frequently used by Americans to conversely address the country.
2. For instance, when Americans ask, "Are you in the States now?" they typically don't phrase it as, "Are you in the United States now?" This casual usage reflects the colloquial nature of referring to the country among its citizens.
3. The term "state" in its singular form is often used by individuals residing within the same state. For example, if both individuals being addressed are from California, they might say, "I'm not in the state right now; I'm traveling in Washington State." This usage indicates a sense of regional identity and familiarity.
