20:14 Jun 28, 2009 

Like it or not, the man said "Estado español", and it seems to me that judgements about how to translate it should not depend on one's own feelings about the phrase. Loony or not, what did he mean and how can we best represent it in English? Well I don't know, but I don't think making judgements about what readers might conclude about the speaker's (NB not writer's) politics is the best way of answering that question.

19:32 Jun 28, 2009 

It's difficult to think of a European country that isn't a combination of different nations in exactly the same way as Spain. While many Spaniards imagine that such diversity is unique to Spain, it is entirely normal in Europe.

Using the phrase 'the Spanish state' will result in many readers concluding that the writer is on one of the undemocratic and 'loony' ends of the political spectrum.

19:16 Jun 28, 2009 

It may be true that the translation sounds strange, but, depending on who is speaking, we always say Estado español as we want to compare it (Central Governmnt) against the autonomous /regional ones. Don't forget there are many in Spain who think our country is a combination of different nations!

14:50 Jun 27, 2009 

I agree entirely with both Richard and John.

14:48 Jun 27, 2009 

Oh, how I agree with John. I would go with just "Spain."

14:42 Jun 27, 2009 

Hi John

This is not strictly related to your question - but were you planning to translate 'Estado español' as 'the Spanish state'.

Of course, it's your call - but I find the term 'Estado español' loathsome. Just my personal rant!