Translation guide
The English word 'international' is most commonly expressed in Japanese with 国際的 (こくさいてき) or 国際 (こくさい) used as a prefix. The choice depends on whether you are describing something as international in nature or forming compound nouns.
international (adjective)
Use 国際的 (こくさいてき) as an adjective. For compound nouns, use 国際 (こくさい) as a prefix.
To say that something is international in scope, character, or nature (e.g., an international event, an international company).
The most common and natural way to describe something as 'international'. It is an adjective meaning 'international' in the sense of involving multiple countries or having a global character.
This conference is international.
Used as a noun or prefix meaning 'international'. It is often combined with other nouns to form compound words like 国際関係 (international relations) or 国際空港 (international airport). It is not used as a standalone adjective.
To form nouns like 'international airport', 'international law', etc.
Use 国際 as a prefix attached directly to a noun. This is the standard way to create compound terms.
international airport
international law
international call
Referring to a person who is from another country or has an international background.
Specifically means 'international student' or 'exchange student'. This is the standard term for a student studying abroad.
He is an international student.
Means 'foreigner' or 'person from another country'. It can be used in contexts like 'international staff' but is less specific than 'international' and simply means 'foreign'.
Literally 'international person', used to describe someone with a global mindset or who is active internationally. It is not used for simply being a foreigner.
国際的 is an adjective meaning 'international' (e.g., 国際的な問題 = international issue). 国際 is a noun/prefix used in compounds (e.g., 国際空港 = international airport). Do not use 国際 alone as an adjective.
international conference
international conference (as a compound noun)
an international issue
I'm studying international relations.
A loanword from English, used in some contexts like school names or brand names, but not as common as 国際的 for general use. It can sound stylish or foreign.
international school
I have an international friend. (lit. a foreign friend)
He is a true international citizen.