Most current applications of nitride materials are based on films deposited from the vapour phase. However, a series of other potential uses of nitrides have been envisaged based on properties such as higher conductivity than oxides, hardness, inertness and catalytic or electrochemical activity. Many current applications use nanocrystalline nitrides and increasingly the size and shape dependent properties are of interest. This feature article reviews synthesis methods to make nanocrystalline and nanoparticulate nitride materials, plus it discusses the current applications and several potential ones.