Meaning & use
globalization
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Meaning
noununcountable
The process by which countries, businesses, and cultures become more connected and dependent on each other worldwide.
Grammar: Used as an uncountable noun; it does not take 'a' or a plural.
Patterns
- economic globalization
- the globalization of something
- globalization of trade
Globalization has made it easier for companies to sell their products in other countries.
Many people worry that globalization is destroying local traditions.
The globalization of the food industry means you can buy fresh fruit from anywhere in the world.
Common combinations
- economic globalization
- Economic globalization has increased competition among nations.
- the globalization of trade
- The globalization of trade has lowered prices for many goods.
- globalization of culture
- The globalization of culture can lead to the loss of unique customs.
- globalization process
- The globalization process has been going on for centuries.
Synonyms and how they differ
- internationalization
- Often used for the process of making something international, especially in business; globalization is broader and includes economic and cultural integration.
- interdependence
- Emphasizes mutual reliance between countries; globalization focuses on the process of becoming connected.
Opposites
Word family
- globalize verb
- To make something become global or worldwide.
- global adjective
- Relating to the whole world.
- globally adverb
- In a way that involves the whole world.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'globalization' correctly?
Choose one answer.
'Globalization' is an uncountable noun, so it takes a singular verb ('has') and cannot be used with 'a' or as a verb. Option 3 is correct. Option 1 uses 'a globalization' incorrectly; option 2 uses a plural verb; option 4 uses it as a verb.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “globalization”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.