noun
DUBIOUS : A number of different countries and areas face the same problem.
GOOD : A number of different countries and regions face the same problem.
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To refer to one of the very large parts of a country, or to an area which includes more than one country, use region : 'This region of France is famous for its wine.' 'We apologize to viewers in the southern region for the poor picture quality.' 'This variety of rice is grown mainly in cool temperate regions.'