Globalize: meaning, definitions and examples

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Globalize

 

[ˈɡloʊbəˌlaɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

economy

To make something operate on a global scale or to extend worldwide influence.

Synonyms

Internationalize, universalize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
Globalize

This term is often used in the context of economic and cultural integration on a worldwide scale. It typically implies the spread or expansion of businesses, ideologies, or systems across the globe.

  • Many companies aim to globalize their operations to reach a broader market.
  • The internet has helped to globalize information access.
Internationalize

This term is more specific to involving or relating to multiple countries. It is often used in the context of business, politics, and education, where activities or policies are adapted for or expanded to include other countries.

  • The university seeks to internationalize its curriculum to attract students from all over the world.
  • Many software companies internationalize their products by offering multiple language options.
universalize

This term refers to making something global or applicable to all universally. It is often used in a philosophical, social, or ethical context to suggest that certain principles, rights, or standards should be adopted by everyone, regardless of origin or background.

  • Efforts to universalize human rights have been ongoing for decades.
  • The scientist's mission was to universalize access to clean water.

Examples of usage

  • Many companies aim to globalize their products in order to reach a wider market.
  • The organization's goal is to globalize its humanitarian efforts and make a positive impact around the world.
Context #2 | Verb

culture

To adopt or incorporate global or worldwide perspectives, practices, or values.

Synonyms

Internationalize, cosmopolitanize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
Globalize

Use this word when referring to the process of making something worldwide in scope or application, often used in economic, cultural, or technological contexts.

  • Many companies try to globalize their products to reach a wider market.
  • The internet has helped to globalize information sharing.
Internationalize

Use this term when discussing the process of making something international in scope or operation. It often pertains to policies, businesses, or educational programs aimed at involving multiple countries.

  • The university decided to internationalize its curriculum to attract more foreign students.
  • Efforts to internationalize the peace treaty have met with significant challenges.
cosmopolitanize

This word is appropriate in contexts where you want to describe making something or someone cosmopolitan, which typically means being familiar with and at ease in many different countries and cultures. It is often used in relation to people, cities, or attitudes.

  • Traveling extensively can help to cosmopolitanize a person's outlook.
  • Efforts to cosmopolitanize the city have led to a more diverse cultural scene.

Examples of usage

  • The university encourages students to globalize their education by studying abroad.
  • This art exhibition aims to globalize contemporary art and showcase artists from diverse cultures.
Context #3 | Verb

business

To expand business operations internationally and enter foreign markets.

Synonyms

expand internationally, go global.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
Globalize

This term is often used when discussing the integration of businesses, cultures, or economies on a global scale. It's more about the process and may include political, social, and economic elements.

  • Many companies seek to globalize their operations to access new markets.
  • The internet has helped to globalize culture.
expand internationally

This phrase is specifically used when a company begins to operate in foreign markets. It focuses on business growth and market reach.

  • The company is planning to expand internationally to increase its revenue.
  • We need a solid strategy to expand internationally starting next year.
go global

Similar to 'expand internationally,' but often used in a more informal context. It emphasizes the idea of becoming known or operating worldwide, typically for companies or brands.

  • Our startup aims to go global within the next five years.
  • They went global and now their products are sold in over fifty countries.

Examples of usage

  • The company decided to globalize its production by opening factories in multiple countries.
  • Globalizing the business required understanding different cultures and regulations.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'globalize' comes from 'global', which means 'relating to the whole world', and the suffix 'ize', which means to make or become.
  • It first appeared in English in the mid-20th century, especially as businesses started to operate internationally.
  • 'Globalization' is the noun form and became popular in the 1980s to describe the process of increasing interconnectedness of economies.

Economics

  • The rise of the internet in the 1990s greatly accelerated the process of globalizing businesses and economies.
  • Globalization allows companies to source materials and sell products in multiple countries, expanding their market reach.
  • It has led to the establishment of global supply chains, where a product's components can be made in different parts of the world.

Cultural Impact

  • Globalization has led to the spread of diverse cultures, allowing people to experience food, music, and traditions from around the world.
  • While it promotes cultural exchange, some argue it can also lead to cultural homogenization, where local identities might be overshadowed.
  • Popular films, music, and fashion trends often emerge from global collaborations, showcasing a mix of influences.

Environmental Considerations

  • The globalized economy has raised concerns about environmental impact, as increased production and transportation contribute to pollution.
  • International agreements, like the Paris Agreement, aim to tackle global environmental issues that have arisen due to industrialization.
  • Conversations on sustainable globalization focus on balancing economic growth with environmental protection.

Technology

  • The advancement of communication technology, such as smartphones and social media, has made global interaction easier than ever.
  • Cloud computing enables remote collaboration across the globe, transforming how businesses and teams operate.
  • Technology continues to play a vital role in shaping and speeding up the process of globalization, influencing everything from trade to education.

Translations

Translations of the word "Globalize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 globalizar

🇮🇳 वैश्वीकरण करना

🇩🇪 globalisieren

🇮🇩 mengglobalisasi

🇺🇦 глобалізувати

🇵🇱 globalizować

🇯🇵 グローバル化する

🇫🇷 globaliser

🇪🇸 globalizar

🇹🇷 küreselleştirmek

🇰🇷 세계화하다

🇸🇦 عولمة

🇨🇿 globalizovat

🇸🇰 globalizovať

🇨🇳 全球化

🇸🇮 globalizirati

🇮🇸 hnattvæða

🇰🇿 ғаламдандыру

🇬🇪 გლობალიზაცია

🇦🇿 qloballaşmaq

🇲🇽 globalizar