International Meaning, Examples, and Usage

Meaning 1：between countries (international)

international 🔊

/ˌɪntərˈnæʃənəl/

adj.

Connected to, or happening between, two or more countries.

International meaning: UN assembly with diverse country representatives in discussion

between countries 🔊

➕

/bɪˈtwiːn ˈkʌntriz/

adj.

Relating to or involving two or more countries; extending across national boundaries.

📁 Category：Countries & Government 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'inter' (between) + 'natio' (nation) + '-al' (adjective suffix).

💡 Mnemonic

Inter = between, nation = country, so international = between countries. Picture a bridge connecting two nations.

📖 Example

The Olympic Games are a major international sporting event that brings together athletes from all over the world. 🔊 The Olympic Games are a major international sporting event that brings together athletes from all over the world.

🔗 Collocations

international trade – Exchange of goods and services between countries

international law – System of rules governing relations between nations

international community – Nations of the world considered collectively

🔄 Synonyms

global (adj.) – Relating to the whole world; worldwide.

multinational (adj.) – Involving or operating in several countries.

transnational (adj.) – Extending or operating across national boundaries.

🚫 Antonyms

domestic (adj.) – Relating to a single country; not foreign.

national (adj.) – Relating to a particular nation, not international.

local (adj.) – Relating to a particular area, not international.

🌱 Derivatives

internationally (adv.) – In a way that involves or affects multiple countries.

internationalize (v.) – To make something international in scope or character.

internationalism (n.) – The principle of cooperation among nations.

📖 Cultural Story

Originating from Latin 'inter' meaning 'between' and 'natio' meaning 'nation'. The term gained modern usage in the 19th century with the rise of global diplomacy and trade.