English Reference

Word

globalization

Phoneticsglob·al·iza·tion

/ˌɡɫoʊbəɫɪˈzeɪʃən/

Uncountable noun Economics

Definition

n. the process of different countries and people becoming more connected through trade, technology, and culture. It means that products, ideas, and information move around the world much faster than before.

n. the process by which businesses, cultures, and societies develop international influence or start operating on a global scale. Often used to describe the increasing integration of national economies through trade, financial flows, and the exchange of technology.

Examples

“Globalization allows us to buy products from all over the world.”

“The rapid spread of the internet has accelerated globalization by allowing people to work together across different continents in real time.”

“Critics of globalization argue that while it fosters economic growth and cultural exchange, it can also lead to the erosion of local traditions and the exploitation of labor in developing nations.”

Examples

simple

“Globalization allows us to buy products from all over the world.”

contextual

“The rapid spread of the internet has accelerated globalization by allowing people to work together across different continents in real time.”

complex

“Critics of globalization argue that while it fosters economic growth and cultural exchange, it can also lead to the erosion of local traditions and the exploitation of labor in developing nations.”

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “globalization” in context.

Verb

01. accelerate globalization

“The rapid development of the internet has done much to accelerate globalization in the last two decades.”

verb + noun

02. embrace globalization

“Many developing nations have chosen to embrace globalization to boost their economic growth.”

verb + noun

03. resist globalization

“Local artisans often resist globalization because they fear losing their traditional crafts to mass production.”

verb + noun

Adjective

04. cultural globalization

“Some critics argue that cultural globalization leads to the disappearance of unique local traditions.”

adj + noun

05. economic globalization

“Economic globalization has led to the integration of financial markets across the world.”

adj + noun

06. increasing globalization

“In an era of increasing globalization, learning a second language has become essential for career success.”

adj + noun

Noun

07. impact of globalization

“Economists are still studying the long-term impact of globalization on local job markets.”

noun + of + noun

08. process of globalization

“The process of globalization has made it easier for people to work remotely for companies in other countries.”

noun + of + noun

Preposition

09. due to globalization

“Many products are now cheaper due to globalization and the efficiency of international supply chains.”

prep + noun

Usage

Commonly used in the singular form without an article when discussing the general concept.

Real-World Examples

“Unlike most Democrats, many working-class communities do not see globalization in their interest .”
The Conversation 7 Aug 2026

Etymology

From globalize + -ation.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Domain

Economics

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
Updated

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