What is foreign? Pronunciation and usage in English

foreign means . Learn how to pronounce and use foreign through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of foreign

foreignadjective

/ˈfɒrɪn/
Definition & pronunciation of foreign

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "foreign." It can be a tricky word for non-native speakers! Here’s a breakdown:

1. The Sound Breakdown:

  • For: Sounds like the "for" in "fork" (as in, the utensil).
  • eign: This is the trickier part. It's pronounced like "gn" – think of the “gn” sound in the French word “agneau” (lamb). It's a soft, almost nasal sound.

2. Putting it Together:

The whole word is pronounced: “for-eign”

3. Key Tips & Nuances:

  • The “gn” sound: This is not like the "gn" in "gnome." It's lighter and more subtle. The sound comes primarily from your nose. Try saying “gn” and then try to soften it and make it less intense.
  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable: “FOR-eign.”
  • Don't overemphasize the "i": The “i” in “foreign” is relatively short and quiet.

4. Resources for Hearing it:

To help me tailor my explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • Are you having trouble with the "gn" sound specifically?
  • Is there a particular accent you are trying to emulate (e.g., American, British)?

Usage and examples with the word foreign in English

Let's break down how to use the word "foreign" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances. Here's a breakdown of its common uses and how to apply them:

1. As an Adjective - Referring to a Country or People:

  • Most Common Use: This is the primary way "foreign" is used. It means not native to a particular place.

    • Example: "He is a foreign student studying at our university." (He’s from a country other than where the university is located.)
    • Example: "She has foreign friends from Japan and Italy." (Her friends are not originally from this country.)
    • Example: "The foreign policy of the government is a complex issue." (Referring to policies related to other countries.)

  • Distinction from "International": "Foreign" emphasizes difference and otherness. "International" implies connection, cooperation, and global engagement.

    • Example (Foreign): "We need to understand the foreign culture’s customs." (emphasizes a difference.)
    • Example (International): "The international conference brought together experts from many countries." (emphasizes collaboration.)

2. As an Adjective - Referring to Language:

  • Meaning: Not native to the speaker’s language.
    • Example: "She’s learning foreign languages – French and Spanish."
    • Example: “The documents were translated into foreign languages.”

3. As an Adjective - Referring to Things (Originating Elsewhere):

  • Meaning: Coming from another country; not native. This can apply to objects, products, or ideas.
    • Example: "This is a foreign car – it’s a Volvo." (Not made in this country.)
    • Example: “We imported foreign goods to sell in our store.”
    • Example: “The recipe used foreign spices, giving it a unique flavor.”

4. Less Common, More Formal Usages:

  • As part of a phrase:
    • “Foreign relations”: Formal term for interactions between countries.
    • “Foreign aid”: Financial assistance provided by one country to another.

Important Notes & Considerations:

  • "Alien" vs. "Foreign": "Alien" carries a more negative connotation of being strange, unfamiliar, or even hostile. “Foreign” is generally neutral. (e.g., "He seemed an alien to our way of life" vs. "He's a foreign visitor.")

  • "Exotic" vs. "Foreign": “Exotic” often implies something rare, exciting, and potentially luxurious. "Foreign" is more straightforward.

  • Regional Differences: Usage can subtly vary depending on the country/region.

Let’s test your understanding! Try to use “foreign” in these sentences:

  1. “The museum has a collection of __________ artifacts from ancient Egypt.”
  2. “She enjoys studying __________ cultures and their traditions.”
  3. “He speaks fluent __________ languages.”

To help me tailor my explanation further, could you tell me:

  • What specifically are you hoping to do with the word "foreign"? (e.g., are you writing an essay, having a conversation, etc.?)
  • Are there any particular contexts you’d like me to give examples for?

Synonyms for the word foreign

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