International Vs. Transnational: When To Use Each One?

The words “international” and “transnational” have more in common besides sharing a suffix. They share the basic lexical definition of “going beyond national boundaries,” but connotatively, these words differ in definition and usage. Let’s dive into international vs. transnational and when to use each.

International refers to the interaction or agreement between companies, organizations, or languages of two or more nations. Transnational means procedures, activities, or undertakings that extend across nations’ boundaries.

These words refer to matters, issues, or subjects beyond state lines. But can they be used interchangeably? The article aims to discuss the connections and differences between international and transnational.

What Are The Definitions Of International And Transnational?

Before getting into the definitions of “international” and “transnational,” we will first discuss the common suffix used in these words, “national.” Did you know that “national” is a correct English word, not just a suffix?

It means “relating to a country,” “common to the characteristics of a whole country,” or “someone owning permanent allegiance to the state.”

Now that you have understood the meaning of the root word used to form the words “international” and “transnational,” it is time to learn the definition of these words. That will enlighten you on the difference and also aid you in understanding when you should use each one.

The Definitions Of International

The commonly used definition of “international” is “relating to or affecting two or more nations.” The word refers to a situation, matter, or subject that involves more than one country.

International also means a sporting event that involves more than one country or people who compete in it. Another definition of this word relates to or includes more than one country.

It is also correct to define international as relating to or constituting groups or associations having members in two or more nations.

More Meanings Of International

• International refers to active, known, or reaching beyond national boundaries.
• International means an agreement between two or more countries on a certain subject or issue.

The Definitions Of Transnational

The definition of transnational is something or someone that involves several nations. The word transnational also describes activities by businesses or companies that exist or take place in more than one country.

You can also define transnational as going beyond national boundaries or interests. The other definition of transnational is composed of persons and sponsors of different nationalities.

Other dictionaries define transnational as a company or organization representing two or more nationalists.

How To Properly Use International And Transnational In A Sentence

Writers should not just focus on what they want to say but also on how they will say it. That’s the fundamental basis of effective communication. It is not enough to have an idea; you also need to ensure that you have presented it correctly and that your style and tone are accurate.

For that reason, before you use any words in your communications, you must ensure you know the correct way to use them in your sentences. Even if you know the meaning, people might not understand what you are trying to communicate if you do not use the word correctly. Learn how to use international and transnational below.

How To Use The Word International

Use the word international in its singular form, “international,” or plural form internationals, depending on your topic. It also applies when discussing something occurring between a nation on a global scale.

You can also use the word international when discussing a territorial space of a specific province, country, or state. Also, referring to someone of a foreign or external origin source or something that relates to two or more governments. As a noun, use it when referring to a game or contest between two or more nations.

How To Use The Word Transnational

The plural form of transnational is transnationals; keep this in mind when using this word in your sentences. More so;

• Use the word transnational when discussing matters extending or operating across national boundaries. This subject encompasses many countries.
• Use the word when discussing things relating to two or more countries. 
• The word transnational explains something that moves across or through a country involving one or several countries. 

Also, when discussing people operating in several countries.

When To Use The Words International And Transnational

Though international and transnational are connected, each of these terms has a distinct and specific meaning. Due to this, you need to know when to use each of these words to avoid making mistakes.

International means that something, a business, sport, or activity, is happening outside the boundaries of a country. However, there are governments or government bodies that regulate these activities. Use it when referring to activities that have a centralized system.

Transnational refers to something operating beyond national borders. The activity, business, and sport don’t have a centralized system. The law or body in charge of the activities depends on the interest of the local country. If something is transnational, it doesn’t have to side with its home nation.

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International Vs. Transnational: What Part Of Speech Do These Words Belong?

In English, part of a speech is vital as it shows writers how words are related. It also helps writers master their writing techniques since it will guide them in sentence creation, define the correct word order, and help with punctuation. That’s why it is vital to learn the part of speech of international and transnational before using these words in your sentences.

International is an adjective used to describe something that involves two countries or more. However, in British English, international can be used as a noun, specifically when referring to a game or contest between teams representing different countries in a sport.

Transnational is also an adjective used to describe companies, policies, language, or anything that exists in several nations at the same time.

10 Sentence Examples With International And Transnational

We have explained how international and transnational connect and differ from each other. We have also looked at the various ways to use these words and their part of speech. Having understood the definitions and usage tips when it comes to these words, you can now confidently construct correct sentences.

However, if you are still not confident with your sentence composing skills, here are some examples of sentences with international and transnational to help you get started.

1. We care about the company’s international reputation, so we do a background check on all our employees.
2. Though her parents did not support her music career, she has worked hard and has achieved international fame.
3. There is an international agreement against exporting illicit drugs to that country.
4. Is there an internationally agreed-upon rule on what happens if a leader fails to deliver on his promise?
5. The two states are fighting over who owns the international waters.
6. I am researching why large companies prefer operating on a transnational basis.
7. What laws do transnational corporations use when they start a business in a new country?
8. The management is trying to find balance in the transitional chain of cloth line companies.
9. The US Navy is working hard to stop the transitional terrorist.
10. The emergence of transnational currency will be the turning point in how companies do business.

Conclusion

Should I use international or transnational? After reading this article, this is a question you will no longer have to ask yourself or someone. This article has highlighted in depth the difference between these words. Now that you know what they mean and how to use them in your sentences share with us or your peers some creative sentences you have created using these words.