What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
foreign
Example
I am learning a foreign language. [foreign: adjective]
Example
The restaurant serves foreign cuisine. [foreign: adjective]
Example
He felt like a foreigner in the new city. [foreigner: noun]
international
Example
The company has an international presence. [international: adjective]
Example
The conference attracted international participants. [international: adjective]
Example
The airline offers international flights. [international: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Foreign is more commonly used in everyday language, while international is more commonly used in formal or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between foreign and international?
International is generally more formal than foreign, as it is often used in professional or academic settings to describe global or cross-border aspects.
