noun
General term for any language other than one's native language. Often used in educational contexts or when contrasting with 国語 (national language).
大学で外語を専攻しています。
I'm majoring in a foreign language at university.
外語の習得には時間がかかる。
Acquiring a foreign language takes time.
Compound of 外 (outside, foreign) and 語 (language). A straightforward kanji compound meaning 'outside language'.