People tend to seek the support of others in any endeavor. It is easier for the company to overcome difficult life situations, seek solutions and enjoy victories. But what if there are no relatives close by blood or spirit? Then your salvation is a fellow countryman! The term has been incredibly popular for several centuries, because even during a journey to other continents you can meet your soul mate to drink a glass of wine and talk for life.
Where did it come from?
The origin from the word "land" is clearly visible. This is not about the whole planet, but about some small piece of it:
about the area;
about the village;
about the city;
about the area;
about the state.
In the narrow sense of the word "countryman" is a person who was born, raised and / or once lived on the same territory with pronouncing a capacious definition. In this case, only the geographical principle applies, regardless of the sympathy of the interlocutors for each other.
How to use in communication?
However, a figurative meaning is possible when the word “compatriot” becomes the closest synonym. Especially strong distribution of such a value "fellow countryman" received during the period of mass migration of Russians abroad. The new situation, the lack of acquaintances, the establishment of life from scratch dragged the last mental strength. And it was always nice to meet someone from their homeland, indulge in nostalgia, gain strength in a cozy and friendly circle.
This kind of appeal is very familiar, serves as a substitute for the name, instantly translates communication into an informal channel. It is considered colloquial, therefore it is found only in conversations with people of their social status or downline. Otherwise, the "fellow countryman" is an absolute and complete violation of etiquette, a manifestation of disrespect and unwillingness to keep distance with the interlocutor.
Is it relevant today?
If you have never left your native region, then the probability of personally participating in such a relationship is extremely small. Unless from the side. During the period of bullying in the Russian army, there were a number of ways to differentiate colleagues. One of them was fraternity, that is, the division of soldiers of military service into the regions from which they arrived. The comrades held together to repulse the incoherent interactions or they themselves started conflicts.
Gradually, such gloomy stories are forgotten, and the positive connotation of the word "fellow countryman" comes to the fore. These are childhood memories, and a slight sadness about the father's house. The term is very warm, comfortable, albeit not always applicable. Today, some use it for any person whom they consider “their own,” in whom they see their soul mates.