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Internationalization Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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internationalization

[ˌɪn.təˌnæʃ.ən.əl.əˈzeɪ.ʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

software development

The process of designing a software application so that it can be adapted to various languages and regions without engineering changes. Internationalization involves designing a program in a way that makes it easy to localize for target audiences around the world.

Synonyms

globalization, i18n.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
internationalization

This appears to be repeated in your list. Please refer to the first entry for the appropriate usage, context, and examples.
globalization

A broader term often used in discussions about economic, cultural, and political integration across the world. It involves the increasing interconnection and interdependence of nations and markets.

  • The globalization of trade has led to the exchange of goods and services across continents.
  • Globalization impacts cultural exchanges and international relations.
i18n

This is a shorthand version of 'internationalization', commonly used in technical and software development contexts. The term derives from the fact that there are 18 letters between the 'i' and the 'n' in 'internationalization'.

  • We need to focus on i18n to ensure our app works in other countries.
  • i18n is crucial for the global reach of our web service.

Examples of usage

  • Internationalization allows companies to easily expand their products to new markets.
  • Developers need to consider internationalization from the early stages of software development.
Context #2 | Noun

linguistics

The process of making something suitable for use in multiple countries or regions, especially involving the translation of text into different languages. It aims to create products or services that can be easily understood and used by people from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Synonyms

globalization, localization.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
internationalization

Used when describing the process of designing products or services so they can easily adapt to various international markets without requiring changes.

  • The software team's focus on internationalization ensured their product could be used in European and Asian markets without modifications.
  • Internationalization involves creating a flexible codebase that supports multiple languages and regions.
globalization

Describes the broader process involving economic, cultural, political, and social integration across international borders. It can refer to markets, cultures, and industries becoming interconnected.

  • Globalization has led to an increased exchange of goods, services, and ideas around the world.
  • The effects of globalization are evident in how multinational companies operate in multiple countries.
localization

Focused on adapting products or services for a specific local market, including cultural, linguistic, and other region-specific adjustments.

  • Localization of the website involved translating the content and adjusting the layout to fit local preferences.
  • The video game's localization included dubbing characters' voices in Japanese and changing in-game cultural references.

Examples of usage

  • Internationalization of the website involved translating content into multiple languages.
  • The company's internationalization efforts made their products accessible to a global audience.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Software developers often include internationalization in their projects to make them accessible to users around the world.
  • A popular programming method uses 'Unicode' to represent characters from many languages, enhancing international usability.
  • Tech companies often adopt strategies like localization, which is the adaptation of content for specific regions.

Global Culture

  • Internationalization facilitates cultural exchange, allowing people from different backgrounds to connect and share ideas.
  • Events like the Olympics exemplify internationalization by bringing together diverse nations to celebrate sports and culture.
  • Multinational corporations embrace internationalization to cater to varying consumer preferences across countries.

Education

  • Internationalization in education increasingly includes study abroad programs, promoting cross-cultural understanding among students.
  • Many universities have adapted their curricula to include global perspectives, ensuring that students are prepared for a global workforce.
  • Educational materials are often internationalized to be relevant and understandable to students from various backgrounds.

Business

  • Businesses that engage in internationalization are better positioned to compete in the global market, increasing their customer base.
  • Challenges include regulatory compliance, differing cultural expectations, and language barriers that must be navigated.
  • Successful international brands often tailor their marketing strategies to reflect local customs and values.

Origin of 'internationalization'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the combination of 'international' (between nations) and the suffix '-ization' (the process of making).
  • It gained popularity in the late 20th century with the rise of global business and technology.
  • The concept originally focused on trade but has expanded to include culture and communication.

The term 'internationalization' originated in the field of software development in the 1980s to describe the process of designing software for global markets. It has since been adopted in various industries to refer to the adaptation of products or services for international use. The concept emphasizes the importance of cultural and linguistic diversity in a globalized world.

See also: Internationalize, internationally.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,115, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.