Definition

1. Verb (transitive):
   • To make something international in character, scope, or composition: This involves adapting or extending something so that it involves, represents, or operates across multiple nations.
   • To place something under international control or jurisdiction: This refers to transferring authority or management of something to an agreement or body involving several countries.

Usage and Examples

• To make international in character:
  • The university aims to internationalize its curriculum by including more global perspectives.
  • The company decided to internationalize its brand to reach new markets.
• To place under international control:
  • There were calls to internationalize the canal to ensure free passage for all nations.
  • The treaty sought to internationalize the management of the polar region.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• The verb often describes a deliberate process or policy undertaken by organizations, governments, or institutions.
• It can be used in various contexts, including business (markets, workforce), education (programs, student body), politics (issues, disputes), and technology (standards).
• "Internationalization" (noun) is the related process or result.
  • The internationalization of the supply chain made it more resilient.

Variants and Related Words

• Internationalise: The British English spelling variant of "internationalize".
• Internationalization (n): The process or result of making something international.
• International (adj): Existing, involving, or carried on between nations.

Synonyms

• Globalize: To develop or be developed so as to make possible international influence or operation. (Note: "Globalize" can imply a broader, worldwide scale, while "internationalize" often focuses on involving multiple specific nations.)
• Universalize: To make something universal in application or scope.

Antonyms

• Localize: To restrict something to a particular place or area.
• Nationalize: To bring under the control or ownership of a single nation.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• International cooperation: Collaborative efforts between countries, which can be a goal of internationalization.
• Multinational: Involving or operating in several countries, which can be a result of internationalization.

Verb

1. make international in character
   • We internationalized the committee
2. put under international control
   • internationalize trade of certain drugs