multinational - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
multinational Word Meanings
- involving several countries
- operating in multiple nations
- pertaining to multiple nationalities
multinational Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
multinational Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌmʌl.tɪˈnæʃ.ən.əl/
US
/ˌmʌl.təˈnæʃ.ən.əl/
multinational Word Etymology
multi- = many, national = relating to a nation. Originated from Latin through Old French into English. Imagine a globe covered with flags from different countries, symbolizing business and culture coming together from around the world.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Multinational is an adjective describing something that involves several countries or operates in multiple nations. It is often used for businesses, organizations, or activities that cross borders, such as a multinational company with offices in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The term also relates to people and perspectives that come from more than one country or nationality. Etymologically, it comes from multi- (many) and national (relating to a nation), and it has been part of English for centuries to emphasize cross-border reach. In everyday usage, you’ll see it paired with nouns like corporation, alliance, or workforce. Remember that multinational is a modifier, not a noun in most contexts.
Usage Reminders
- 1) The word usually precedes a noun: multinational company, multinational alliance
- 2) Can describe people or projects, not just firms
- 3) Distinguish from international and global
- 4) Common collocations: company, corporation, workforce, market
- 5) Spelling and hyphenation: one word, not multi-national
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing multinational with international
- Thinking it always refers to a company with offices in many countries
- Assuming it can only describe organizations, not people or projects
- Believing it requires offices in every continent
- Spelling or hyphen mistakes: multi-national or multinational?
Thinking Differences
English tends to prefer multinational as a border-crossing descriptor in business contexts, often paired with nouns like company or alliance. Learners may mix it with international or global; remember it emphasizes cross-border operations, not just proximity or cultural mix.
Learning Tips
- Practice collocations: multinational company, multinational corporation, multinational alliance
- Compare with international and global to feel the nuance
- Create a mini-glossary of cross-border terms (market, workforce, operations)
- Read business news to see real-world usage
- Pronounce: /ˌmʌltiˈnæʃənəl/ and stress the second syllable
- Use in context: describe projects spanning several countries
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'multinational'?
A.Involving multiple languages
B.Involving only one nation
C.Involving multiple nations
D.Involving multiple companies
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'multinational' used correctly?
A.I work for a multinational language school.
B.I live in a multinational neighborhood.
C.My friend is learning a multinational instrument.
D.We visited a multinational museum.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym for 'multinational'?
A.Unilateral
B.Global
C.Provincial
D.Local
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'multinational'?
A.Bilateral
B.Domestic
C.Isolated
D.Regional
Step 5: Mastery
How does the concept of 'multinational' apply in real life?
A.Regional environmental policies
B.Local community events
C.Individual household activities
D.International trade agreements
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App