Internationalize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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Internationalize

[ɪnˈtəːnəʃ(ə)nəlʌɪz ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

business

To make something suitable for use in different countries or cultures, especially by translating text or adapting products to meet the needs of specific markets.

Synonyms

Globalize, adapt, localize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
Internationalize	When a company or service expands its operations or reaches to multiple countries beyond its own. The company decided to internationalize its product to reach a broader audience They are working on a plan to internationalize their educational programs
Globalize	When a company or business operates on an international scale, often affecting or involving the entire world. The fashion brand aimed to globalize, opening stores in major cities worldwide With the rise of the internet, many companies have found it easier to globalize their services
localize	When a product or service is adapted for a specific local market or culture, considering local languages, standards, and preferences. The website was localized to include multiple languages For better customer satisfaction, they localized their customer service to cater to regional customers
adapt	When something is modified or changed to fit new conditions, requirements, or different environments. The book was adapted into a movie The software was adapted to be used by visually impaired users

Examples of usage

Companies need to internationalize their websites to attract a global audience.
It is important to internationalize software to ensure it can be used worldwide.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Business

Many companies internationalize to grow their market reach beyond their home country.
This process can include adapting products, services, and marketing strategies to various cultural contexts.
International law has implications for businesses, as companies must abide by the regulations of each country they enter.

Education

In higher education, internationalizing curricula prepares students for global citizenship and the workforce.
Universities often create partnerships with foreign institutions to promote cultural exchange and joint programs.
Studying abroad programs encourage students to experience different cultures firsthand, enhancing their global perspectives.

Cultural Impact

Internationalizing can lead to the blending of cultural elements, creating diverse environments in cities.
This phenomenon also raises concerns about cultural homogenization, where local traditions might be overshadowed by global influences.

Technology

In the tech world, internationalization (often abbreviated as i18n) is crucial for software development to cater to different languages and cultures.
This involves designing applications that can be easily adapted for different languages and regional settings.

Origin of 'Internationalize'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from 'international', which combines 'inter' meaning 'between' and 'natio' meaning 'nation' from Latin.
The suffix '-ize' is used to indicate making or transforming something, so it literally means to make something fit between nations.

The word 'internationalize' originated from the combination of the prefix 'inter-' meaning 'between' or 'among', and the word 'national'. It first appeared in the early 20th century as a term to describe the process of making something suitable for use in multiple nations or cultures.