What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abroad
Example
I'm planning to study abroad next semester. [abroad: adverb]
Example
The company has offices abroad in several countries. [abroad: noun]
foreign
Example
I love trying foreign foods when I travel. [foreign: adjective]
Example
The new student is foreign and still adjusting to the culture. [foreign: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Foreign is more commonly used than abroad in everyday language. Foreign is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while abroad is less common and refers specifically to being outside of one's home country or region.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abroad and foreign?
Both abroad and foreign can be used in formal and informal contexts, but foreign is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.