English Reference
adjective · noun

international

adj. · n.
US /ˌɪnɝˈnæʃənəɫ/ UK /ˌɪntənˈæʃənəl/ in·ter·na·tion·al UK spelling internationals

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    adj.involving two or more different countries.

    adj.relating to, occurring between, or involving two or more nations.

    Simple

    The city has a large international airport with flights to every continent.

    In context

    The treaty requires international cooperation to effectively manage carbon emissions across borders.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate British English Sport

    n.a person who plays a sport for their national team.

    n.an athlete who has represented their country in a specific sport at the senior level.

    Simple

    The retired rugby international now works as a commentator on television.

    In context

    As a former international with fifty caps for her country, she brought invaluable experience to the coaching staff.

    Usage

    Often used with a number, such as 'a former England international'.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is very common in UK and Australian sports media but rare in American English.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate British English Sport

    n.a game or competition between the national teams of different countries.

    n.a sporting contest played between two national representative teams.

    Simple

    The stadium was packed for the football international between France and Spain.

    In context

    The upcoming autumn internationals will serve as a crucial benchmark for the team's progress ahead of the world championships.

    club match
  4. 04 C1 Advanced AcademicFormal

    n.a large group of political parties from different countries that share the same ideas.

    n.a transnational organisation of political parties or movements sharing a common ideology.

    Simple

    The historian wrote a book about the socialist international in the nineteenth century.

    In context

    The delegates sought to coordinate their efforts through the newly formed international, aiming for a unified policy across Europe.

    Usage

    Often capitalised when referring to a specific historical group.

    Teacher's tip

    Usually refers to historical socialist or communist organisations like the 'First International'.

Usage international research · international team · international agreement

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Very common
Updated