How to style a <nav> element with CSS

Hello, I'm a newbie to HTML and CSS and i have a question about CSS styling.

How do I style a <nav> element with CSS properties and values without the use of <ul> and <li>-HTML elements. On the web you will find a lot tips & tricks of styling navigation menus with the use of <ul> and <li> but not without the use of them.

By default the <nav>-element will be displayed horizontally.

How can I achieve that the line will be displayed (spread) in the full length of the body with the use of the example?

example:

<nav  role="navigation">

<a href="#">Home</a>

  <a href="#">About</a>

  <a href="#">Clients</a>

  <a href="#">Contact Us</a>

</nav>

I like to hear from you.

Thanks, Carla@home