Meaning

Primary

Foreign

Alternatives

External, Overseas

Word Type

noun

Explanation

Something is versus the outside. Back in the day, everything was a battle with the outside. You had the Mongols... the rebels... and the foreigners. So, when you say something is "versus the outside" you're just saying it's something compared to where you are right now. It's something that's foreign or external.

This is a formal word typically used at the beginning of compounds to indicate that the subject is related to foreign affairs, such as 対外政策 (foreign policy) or 対外貿易 (foreign trade).

Reading

たいがい
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

This is a jukugo word, which usually means on'yomi readings from the kanji. If you know the readings of your kanji you'll know how to read this as well.

Context

Pattern of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 対外アピール

    external appeal

    対外外交

    foreign diplomacy

    対外赤字

    external deficit

Context Sentences

この会社は対外のビジネスに力を入れています。

This company is focusing on business overseas.

社長は、いつも「対外へのイメージを上げたい」と言っています。

The president always says he wants to improve our public image.

対外コミュニケーションについて不安はありません。

There is no concern about external communication.

Kanji Composition