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Internacionalmente

A2 adverb 13 min read

Internacionalmente

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips Internacionalmente in 30 Seconds

Explanation Internacionalmente in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just beginning your journey into Portuguese. While 'internacionalmente' is a long word, you can understand it because it looks very much like the English word 'internationally'. At this stage, you should focus on recognizing the word when you see it in simple sentences about famous people or big brands. Think of it as a way to say 'in many countries'. You don't need to produce this word often yourself, but knowing that '-mente' usually means '-ly' will help you decode many other Portuguese adverbs. For an A1 student, seeing 'O Cristiano Ronaldo é famoso internacionalmente' is a great way to learn how Portuguese describes global fame using a familiar-looking word.

As an A2 learner, you are building the ability to describe your world and the things around you. You can start using 'internacionalmente' to talk about your favorite movies, music, or companies. You should understand that this word describes the 'where' or 'how' of an action. For example, if you like a brand of shoes, you can say 'Esta marca vende internacionalmente'. You are also learning that adverbs like this one usually come after the verb. At this level, 'internacionalmente' is a useful tool to expand your descriptions from just 'here' (aqui) to 'everywhere' or 'between countries'. It helps you talk about more complex topics like travel and business in a basic way.

At the B1 level, you are becoming an independent user of the language. You can now use 'internacionalmente' to express opinions and provide reasons. You might use it in a discussion about the environment ('Precisamos de trabalhar internacionalmente') or when talking about your professional goals ('Quero trabalhar numa empresa que atue internacionalmente'). You should be comfortable with its placement in more complex sentences, including those with multiple clauses. You also start to distinguish it from similar words like 'mundialmente' or 'no estrangeiro'. Your pronunciation should be getting smoother, focusing on the stress on the 'MEN' syllable. This word is essential for B1 students who want to participate in more 'adult' conversations about news and global trends.

At the B2 level, you are expected to have a degree of fluency and spontaneity. 'Internacionalmente' becomes a standard part of your vocabulary for formal writing and debates. You can use it to add nuance to your arguments. For instance, instead of just saying something is 'good', you can say it is 'internacionalmente reconhecido pela sua excelência'. You understand the stylistic choice of placing the adverb at the beginning of a sentence for emphasis ('Internacionalmente, a marca é um sucesso, mas em Portugal ainda é pouco conhecida'). You also use it correctly in the passive voice and with various verb tenses. At B2, you are expected to use this word with the correct nasal vowels and rhythmic stress, making it sound natural in the flow of a long explanation.

At the C1 level, your use of 'internacionalmente' is sophisticated. You use it to navigate complex professional and academic environments. You understand the subtle differences in register between 'internacionalmente', 'a nível internacional', and 'globalmente', and you choose the one that fits the context perfectly. You might use it in legal or technical discussions, such as talking about 'normas internacionalmente aceites' (internationally accepted standards). Your ability to integrate this long adverb into fast-paced, complex speech is a hallmark of your advanced proficiency. You also recognize when the word is being used ironically or with specific political undertones in literature or high-level journalism.

At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of the language. 'Internacionalmente' is used with total precision. You can play with the word's placement to create specific rhetorical effects in your writing. You are aware of the word's history and its role in the discourse of globalization. In a C2 context, you might analyze how the use of 'internacionalmente' in a text reflects a certain worldview or cultural bias. You use the word effortlessly in any context, from a formal speech at an international conference to a nuanced critique of a global art movement. For you, the word is not just a vocabulary item, but a precise instrument for defining the scale and scope of human activity on the global stage.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

Internacionalmente in 30 Seconds

Internacionalmente means 'internationally' and is used to describe actions or states that span multiple countries.
It is a formal adverb formed by adding '-mente' to the adjective 'internacional'.
Commonly used in business, news, sports, and arts to denote global reach or fame.
Always stressed on the 'MEN' syllable (inter-na-cio-nal-MEN-te) and does not change with gender.

The word internacionalmente is a powerful adverb in the Portuguese language that functions almost identically to its English counterpart, 'internationally'. Morphologically, it is built from the adjective internacional (international) and the suffix -mente, which is the standard way to form adverbs of manner in Portuguese, equivalent to the English '-ly'. When you use this word, you are describing an action, a state, or a reputation that transcends national borders and encompasses multiple countries or the global stage as a whole. It is a word of scale and scope, used to elevate a subject from a local or domestic context to a global one.

Scope of Application: It is used in business to describe market reach, in arts to describe fame, and in law to describe the applicability of treaties. If a company operates internacionalmente, it means they have branches or sales in various nations.
Morphological Breakdown: Inter (between) + Nacional (national) + Mente (manner). It literally translates to 'in a between-nations manner'.

In everyday conversation, you might hear this word when discussing famous Brazilian or Portuguese figures. For example, Cristiano Ronaldo is recognized internacionalmente. This doesn't just mean people know him; it means his brand and influence are a global phenomenon. The word carries a certain weight of prestige; achieving something internacionalmente is often seen as a higher level of success than achieving it only within the Lusophone (Portuguese-speaking) world.

A marca de café brasileira é conhecida internacionalmente pela sua qualidade superior.

Furthermore, the word is indispensable in academic and political discourse. When discussing human rights, environmental standards, or trade agreements, the adverb defines the jurisdiction and the community of practice. It suggests a standard that is not tied to the idiosyncrasies of a single culture but is shared by the global community. It is a 'neutral' word in terms of register—appropriate for a casual chat about a Netflix show that is trending internacionalmente, as well as for a formal dissertation on international relations.

O cientista foi premiado internacionalmente pelas suas descobertas inovadoras.

Historically, the use of this word has increased with the advent of globalization. In the mid-20th century, a Portuguese singer might be famous 'no estrangeiro' (abroad), but today, the term internacionalmente is preferred because it implies a systematic, multi-country presence rather than just being outside one's home country. It reflects a world that is interconnected by technology, travel, and trade. When you use this word, you are acknowledging this interconnectedness.

Precisamos de pensar internacionalmente para resolver a crise climática.

In summary, internacionalmente is a versatile, high-frequency adverb that bridges the gap between the local and the global. It is essential for anyone looking to discuss business, culture, politics, or personal achievements in a modern context. Its stable meaning and clear structure make it an excellent 'anchor' word for learners building their vocabulary in Portuguese.

Cultural Nuance: In Portugal and Brazil, being recognized internacionalmente is often a point of national pride, as these countries strive to project their cultural and economic influence beyond their borders.

Este software é utilizado internacionalmente por milhões de utilizadores.

Using internacionalmente correctly involves understanding its placement and its relationship with verbs and adjectives. As an adverb of manner or scope, it typically follows the verb it modifies, but it can also appear at the beginning or end of a sentence for emphasis. Its primary role is to specify the geographical and political reach of an action or a state of being.

Modifying Verbs: When modifying a verb, it usually comes immediately after. For example: 'A empresa cresceu internacionalmente' (The company grew internationally). Here, it explains how or where the growth occurred.
Modifying Adjectives (Past Participles): It is very common to see it paired with past participles acting as adjectives, such as conhecido (known), reconhecido (recognized), or premiado (awarded). Example: 'Um artista internacionalmente conhecido'.

One of the most frequent uses is in the passive voice. Because 'being internationally recognized' is a state, we often see: 'Ele é reconhecido internacionalmente'. Note that in Portuguese, we don't usually place the adverb between the auxiliary verb 'ser' and the participle, although it is grammatically possible. Putting it at the end sounds more natural to native ears.

O projeto foi financiado internacionalmente por várias organizações não governamentais.

For stylistic emphasis, you can place internacionalmente at the start of a sentence, followed by a comma. This sets the stage for the rest of the information. For instance: 'Internacionalmente, a situação é vista como uma crise humanitária'. This translates to: 'Internationally, the situation is seen as a humanitarian crisis'. This structure is common in journalism and formal reporting.

When comparing things, you can use internacionalmente alongside comparative structures. 'Esta marca é mais famosa internacionalmente do que a sua concorrente' (This brand is more famous internationally than its competitor). The adverb remains unchanged regardless of the comparison level.

Ela viaja internacionalmente a cada dois meses para dar palestras sobre tecnologia.

In business contexts, you will often see it used with verbs like competir (to compete), expandir (to expand), and atuar (to act/operate). 'A nossa empresa atua internacionalmente há mais de dez anos'. This indicates a long-standing global presence. It is also used to describe the scope of laws: 'Este crime é punível internacionalmente'.

Os direitos humanos devem ser protegidos internacionalmente por todos os governos.

Finally, consider the negative. To say something is not happening on a global scale, you place 'não' before the verb: 'Ele não é conhecido internacionalmente'. Alternatively, to emphasize the lack of international scope, you could say: 'Internacionalmente, ele não tem qualquer influência'. The flexibility of the adverb allows for nuanced expression of scope and importance.

Sentence Structure Summary: Verb + Internacionalmente (Standard) | Internacionalmente, + Clause (Emphasis) | Ser + Participle + Internacionalmente (Passive State).

A música fado é apreciada internacionalmente como um símbolo da cultura portuguesa.

You will encounter internacionalmente in a variety of real-world settings, ranging from the evening news to the boardroom of a multinational corporation. Because it deals with the concept of 'the world outside', it is a staple of media and professional communication. Understanding where it pops up will help you recognize the context and the level of formality being used.

News and Media: Journalists use it constantly. Whether they are talking about a movie that is a 'sucesso internacionalmente' or a political crisis that is being 'condenada internacionalmente', the word provides the necessary scale for the story.
Business and Economics: In reports and meetings, you'll hear about companies trying to 'posicionar-se internacionalmente' (position themselves internationally). It's the language of strategy and growth.

In the world of sports, this word is ubiquitous. When a player is called up for their national team, they are often described as having 'experiência internacional' or performing well internacionalmente. Fans discuss how their local team is perceived abroad, using this adverb to compare their league with others like the Premier League or La Liga.

O futebolista é internacionalmente aclamado como um dos melhores de sempre.

Cultural events are another primary source. Film festivals like Cannes or Berlin are described as internacionalmente relevant. When a Portuguese or Brazilian author wins a prize like the Nobel or the Camões, the media highlights that their work is now recognized internacionalmente. It’s a word associated with prestige and 'making it' on the big stage.

Academic settings are full of this word. Professors discuss theories that are accepted internacionalmente or research that has been published in internacionalmente peer-reviewed journals. If you are studying in a Portuguese-speaking country, you will see this in your textbooks and hear it in lectures regarding global trends.

A universidade colabora internacionalmente em projetos de exploração espacial.

Tourism is the final major area. Travel agencies promote destinations that are internacionalmente famous. Reviews on sites like TripAdvisor often use the word to describe the standard of service: 'O hotel cumpre com os padrões exigidos internacionalmente'. This tells the reader that the quality meets a global expectation, not just a local one.

O Algarve é internacionalmente conhecido pelas suas praias deslumbrantes.

Even in tech, you'll see it. Apps will ask if you want to enable 'chamadas internacionais' or if a service is available internacionalmente. It is a word that signals the removal of geographic barriers. When you hear it, think 'without borders'.

Common Verbal Pairings: Reconhecido internacionalmente, divulgado internacionalmente, operando internacionalmente, aceite internacionalmente.

O tratado foi assinado internacionalmente por mais de cem países.

While internacionalmente is a cognate and thus relatively easy for English speakers to grasp, there are several pitfalls involving spelling, pronunciation, and usage that can trip up even intermediate learners. Awareness of these common errors will help you sound more like a native speaker and less like a translation machine.

Spelling Errors: The Missing 'L': A frequent mistake is spelling it 'internacionalamente' or 'internacionalmende'. Remember that the suffix is always -mente, and the root is internacional. There is only one 'a' between the 'n' and the 'l'.
Pronunciation: Stress Placement: English speakers often want to stress the 'na' or 'cio' part (inter-NA-cionalmente). In Portuguese, the primary stress of all -mente adverbs shifts to the penult syllable of the suffix: inter-na-cio-nal-MEN-te.

Another mistake involves using 'internacionalmente' when 'no estrangeiro' (abroad) would be more appropriate. If you are just talking about going to another country for a vacation, you wouldn't say 'Eu viajo internacionalmente' unless you are describing a lifestyle of frequent global travel. For a single trip, 'Eu vou para o estrangeiro' or 'Eu vou viajar para fora' is much more natural.

Incorrect: Ele é internacionalmente conhecido em Portugal.
Correct: Ele é internacionalmente conhecido (meaning, everywhere).

Confusion with 'mundialmente' is also common. While they are often interchangeable, internacionalmente specifically emphasizes the relationship between nations, whereas mundialmente emphasizes the entire world as a single unit. Using internacionalmente for something that is only popular in two countries is technically correct but might be an overstatement.

Learners also sometimes forget that internacionalmente is an adverb and try to use it as an adjective. You cannot say 'um internacionalmente evento'. You must say 'um evento internacional' (adjective) or 'um evento reconhecido internacionalmente' (adverb modifying a participle). Always check if you are describing a thing (adjective) or the way/scope of an action (adverb).

Wrong: Um internacionalmente sucesso.
Right: Um sucesso internacionalmente aclamado.

Lastly, be careful with the nasal 'in' at the beginning. It's not 'een-ter', it's a nasalized 'i'. If you don't nasalize it, you'll sound very foreign. Practice saying 'in' by trying to push the sound through your nose while keeping your tongue flat. This small adjustment makes a big difference in how 'internacionalmente' sounds to a native listener.

False Friend Warning: While 'internationally' and 'internacionalmente' are almost perfect matches, the Portuguese word is used slightly more often in formal writing than its English counterpart, which often gets replaced by 'globally'.

Não confunda o adjetivo com o advérbio: 'Voo internacional' vs. 'Voar internacionalmente'.

To truly master Portuguese, you need to know not just one word, but the family of words that surround it. Internacionalmente has several synonyms and near-synonyms that can add variety to your speech and writing. Depending on whether you want to sound more poetic, more technical, or more casual, you might choose a different term.

Mundialmente: This is the closest synonym. It means 'worldwide'. While internacionalmente focuses on the interaction between nations, mundialmente focuses on the planet as a whole. Example: 'Um fenómeno mundialmente famoso'.
Globalmente: Often used in business and environmental contexts. It implies a totalizing, all-encompassing scale. Example: 'A economia está a abrandar globalmente'.
Universalmente: More philosophical or absolute. It means 'universally'. Use this for things like 'direitos universalmente aceites'.

If you want to avoid the long '-mente' ending, you can use prepositional phrases. 'Em todo o mundo' (in the whole world) or 'a nível internacional' (at an international level) are very common and often sound more natural in flowing prose. 'A nível internacional' is particularly popular in Portuguese news and corporate reports.

A empresa é líder de mercado a nível internacional.

In contrast to internacionalmente, we have nacionalmente (nationally), localmente (locally), and regionalmente (regionally). Using these in the same paragraph can help you define the specific tiers of an organization or a trend. For example: 'O produto é vendido localmente em feiras, mas a marca é conhecida internacionalmente'. This contrast highlights the scale of the brand's reputation versus its physical distribution.

When discussing travel or location, 'no estrangeiro' or 'no exterior' (specifically in Brazil) are the go-to alternatives. 'Ele vive no estrangeiro' is much more common than 'Ele vive internacionalmente', which sounds like he lives in many countries at once. Precision in choosing between the adverb of manner and the adverbial phrase of place is key.

O filme foi um fracasso nacional, mas brilhou mundialmente.

Finally, consider the register. Internacionalmente is quite formal. In a very casual setting, a Brazilian might say 'pelo mundão afora' (out through the big wide world), though this is much more colloquial and colorful. For your exams and professional life, stick with internacionalmente and its close cousins like globalmente.

Comparison: Internacionalmente vs. Multinacionalmente: Multinacionalmente is very specific to corporate structures. A company operates multinacionalmente if it has actual legal entities in multiple countries, whereas internacionalmente just means they do business across borders.

As leis de copyright variam internacionalmente, o que complica a distribuição digital.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'international' was actually coined in English by Jeremy Bentham in 1780 and then borrowed into other languages like French and Portuguese.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ĩ.tɛɾ.na.sju.nal.ˈmẽ.tɨ/

US /ĩ.teɾ.na.sjo.nal.ˈmẽ.tʃi/

The primary stress is on the penultimate syllable: 'MEN'.

Rhymes With

Constantemente Rapidamente Infelizmente Geralmente Naturalmente Simplesmente Recentemente Finalmente

Common Errors

Stressing the 'NA' instead of the 'MEN'.
Pronouncing the 'L' as a 'W' (common in Brazil, but in Portugal it's a 'dark L').
Forgetting to nasalize the first 'I'.
Making the 'CIO' too long (it should be quick).
Pronouncing 'mente' like the English word 'mint'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize because it is a cognate of the English word 'internationally'.

Writing 3/5

A bit long to spell, but follows standard adverb formation rules.

Speaking 4/5

Requires practice with nasal vowels and correct stress on the 'MEN' syllable.

Listening 2/5

Distinctive sound profile makes it easy to catch in a sentence.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Internacional Nação Mundo Mente Entre

Learn Next

Globalmente Mundialmente Internacionalização Geopolítica Diplomacia

Advanced

Multilateralmente Transnacional Cosmopolita Soberania Jurisdição

Grammar to Know

Adverb formation with -mente

Internacional (adj) + mente = Internacionalmente.

Adverbial stress

All adverbs in -mente are stressed on the penultimate syllable (MEN).

Placement of adverbs of manner

Usually follows the verb: 'Ele trabalha internacionalmente'.

Nasal vowels (in/im)

The 'in' in 'internacionalmente' is a nasal vowel, not an 'i' + 'n' sound.

Adverbs modifying adjectives

The adverb comes before the adjective: 'Internacionalmente famoso'.

Examples by Level

O café é famoso internacionalmente.

The coffee is famous internationally.

Simple Subject + Verb + Adjective + Adverb.

Eles viajam internacionalmente.

They travel internationally.

The adverb follows the verb 'viajam'.

A música é conhecida internacionalmente.

The music is known internationally.

Passive structure: is known.

Esta marca vende internacionalmente.

This brand sells internationally.

Simple present tense verb + adverb.

O filme é popular internacionalmente.

The movie is popular internationally.

Adjective 'popular' modified by the adverb.

Nós trabalhamos internacionalmente.

We work internationally.

First person plural verb.

A comida é apreciada internacionalmente.

The food is appreciated internationally.

Passive voice with 'apreciada'.

O desporto é seguido internacionalmente.

The sport is followed internationally.

Adverb modifying the state of being followed.

A empresa quer crescer internacionalmente este ano.

The company wants to grow internationally this year.

Infinitive 'crescer' followed by the adverb.

Muitos artistas portugueses são famosos internacionalmente.

Many Portuguese artists are famous internationally.

Plural subject and verb.

O festival de cinema é reconhecido internacionalmente.

The film festival is recognized internationally.

Adverb modifying the participle 'reconhecido'.

Você pode comprar este produto internacionalmente.

You can buy this product internationally.

Modal verb 'pode' + infinitive + adverb.

A notícia foi divulgada internacionalmente ontem.

The news was broadcast internationally yesterday.

Past tense passive voice.

Eles competem internacionalmente em torneios de xadrez.

They compete internationally in chess tournaments.

Verb 'competem' + adverb + prepositional phrase.

O vinho do Porto é exportado internacionalmente.

Port wine is exported internationally.

Subject 'vinho' + passive verb + adverb.

A universidade recebe estudantes internacionalmente.

The university receives students internationally.

Verb 'recebe' + object + adverb (placed at the end).

Para ter sucesso, a marca precisa de se posicionar internacionalmente.

To be successful, the brand needs to position itself internationally.

Reflexive infinitive 'se posicionar' + adverb.

Embora seja uma empresa pequena, ela opera internacionalmente.

Although it is a small company, it operates internationally.

Conjunction 'embora' used with the subjunctive.

O acordo foi criticado internacionalmente por vários líderes.

The agreement was criticized internationally by several leaders.

Passive voice with agent 'por vários líderes'.

É importante que o projeto seja visível internacionalmente.

It is important that the project be visible internationally.

Subjunctive mood 'seja' after 'é importante que'.

Eles estão a tentar expandir o negócio internacionalmente.

They are trying to expand the business internationally.

Present continuous 'estão a tentar'.

A série de televisão tornou-se um sucesso internacionalmente.

The television series became a success internationally.

Pronominal verb 'tornou-se'.

O autor viaja internacionalmente para promover o seu novo livro.

The author travels internationally to promote his new book.

Purpose clause with 'para'.

As leis de proteção de dados são discutidas internacionalmente.

Data protection laws are discussed internationally.

Plural passive voice.

Internacionalmente, a reputação do país tem melhorado nos últimos anos.

Internationally, the country's reputation has improved in recent years.

Adverb at the beginning for emphasis, followed by a comma.

O cientista publicou os seus resultados em revistas internacionalmente prestigiadas.

The scientist published his results in internationally prestigious journals.

Adverb modifying the adjective 'prestigiadas'.

A crise financeira afetou os mercados internacionalmente, causando pânico.

The financial crisis affected markets internationally, causing panic.

Adverb modifying the verb 'afetou' with a gerund clause.

A organização trabalha internacionalmente para erradicar a pobreza extrema.

The organization works internationally to eradicate extreme poverty.

Verb 'trabalha' + adverb + purpose clause.

Esta norma é internacionalmente aceite como o padrão de segurança.

This standard is internationally accepted as the safety standard.

Adverb modifying 'aceite' (irregular participle).

O realizador é conhecido internacionalmente pela sua estética única.

The director is known internationally for his unique aesthetic.

Passive voice + preposition 'pela'.

A tecnologia está a ser adotada internacionalmente em larga escala.

The technology is being adopted internationally on a large scale.

Passive continuous structure.

Precisamos de harmonizar estas políticas internacionalmente para evitar conflitos.

We need to harmonize these policies internationally to avoid conflicts.

Infinitive 'harmonizar' + object + adverb.

A validade do tratado deve ser reconhecida internacionalmente para ter efeito jurídico.

The validity of the treaty must be recognized internationally to have legal effect.

Modal 'deve' + passive 'ser reconhecida' + adverb.

O escândalo foi divulgado internacionalmente, manchando a imagem da corporação.

The scandal was broadcast internationally, tarnishing the corporation's image.

Passive past + gerund 'manchando'.

Internacionalmente, observa-se uma tendência para a descarbonização das economias.

Internationally, a trend towards the decarbonization of economies is observed.

Passive 'se' construction with the adverb in initial position.

O prémio Nobel é a distinção mais cobiçada internacionalmente no campo da literatura.

The Nobel Prize is the most coveted distinction internationally in the field of literature.

Superlative 'mais cobiçada' modified by the adverb.

As redes sociais permitem que as notícias circulem internacionalmente em segundos.

Social networks allow news to circulate internationally in seconds.

Subjunctive 'circulem' after 'permitem que'.

A empresa expandiu-se internacionalmente através de uma série de aquisições estratégicas.

The company expanded internationally through a series of strategic acquisitions.

Pronominal verb 'expandiu-se' + adverb + prepositional phrase.

O conceito de soberania está a ser redefinido internacionalmente na era digital.

The concept of sovereignty is being redefined internationally in the digital age.

Complex passive continuous tense.

A gastronomia portuguesa tem-se afirmado internacionalmente pela sua autenticidade.

Portuguese gastronomy has been asserting itself internationally for its authenticity.

Compound tense with reflexive 'tem-se afirmado'.

A jurisprudência internacionalmente consolidada sugere que tais atos constituem crimes de guerra.

Internationally consolidated jurisprudence suggests that such acts constitute war crimes.

Adverb modifying a complex participial adjective 'consolidada'.

A obra do filósofo, embora complexa, é internacionalmente aclamada pela sua profundidade.

The philosopher's work, although complex, is internationally acclaimed for its depth.

Interjected clause 'embora complexa' + passive voice.

Internacionalmente, as pressões diplomáticas intensificaram-se após a violação do cessar-fogo.

Internationally, diplomatic pressures intensified after the ceasefire violation.

Adverb in initial position + reflexive verb 'intensificaram-se'.

O mercado de capitais reagiu internacionalmente com volatilidade aos anúncios do banco central.

The capital market reacted internationally with volatility to the central bank's announcements.

Verb 'reagiu' + adverb + prepositional phrases.

É imperativo que as normas de biossegurança sejam aplicadas internacionalmente de forma uniforme.

It is imperative that biosafety standards be applied internationally in a uniform manner.

Subjunctive passive 'sejam aplicadas' + adverb.

A fluidez do capital financeiro permite que este se desloque internacionalmente com facilidade.

The fluidity of financial capital allows it to move internationally with ease.

Subjunctive reflexive 'se desloque' + adverb.

O património cultural imaterial deve ser salvaguardado internacionalmente como herança da humanidade.

Intangible cultural heritage must be safeguarded internationally as a legacy of humanity.

Passive infinitive 'ser salvaguardado' + adverb.

A eficácia da vacina foi comprovada internacionalmente através de ensaios clínicos rigorosos.

The vaccine's efficacy was proven internationally through rigorous clinical trials.

Passive past + adverb + complex prepositional phrase.

Common Collocations

Reconhecido internacionalmente

Conhecido internacionalmente

Operar internacionalmente

Competir internacionalmente

Divulgar internacionalmente

Aceite internacionalmente

Expandir internacionalmente

Premiado internacionalmente

Atuar internacionalmente

Consolidado internacionalmente

Common Phrases

Ser famoso internacionalmente

— To be famous in many countries around the world.

A Anitta é famosa internacionalmente.

Pensar internacionalmente

— To have a global mindset or consider international factors.

Os políticos precisam de pensar internacionalmente.

Vender internacionalmente

— To export products to other countries.

Muitas lojas online agora vendem internacionalmente.

Viajar internacionalmente

— To take trips to foreign countries frequently.

O meu trabalho exige que eu viaje internacionalmente.

Reconhecimento internacionalmente válido

— A certification or recognition that is accepted globally.

Este diploma tem reconhecimento internacionalmente válido.

Impacto internacionalmente visível

— An effect that can be seen across many nations.

A greve teve um impacto internacionalmente visível.

Normas internacionalmente seguidas

— Rules that are followed by many countries.

Seguimos as normas internacionalmente seguidas para a aviação.

Sucesso internacionalmente aclamado

— A success that has received praise from global critics.

O livro foi um sucesso internacionalmente aclamado.

Posicionar-se internacionalmente

— To establish a presence or reputation on the global stage.

Portugal está a posicionar-se internacionalmente como um hub tecnológico.

Colaborar internacionalmente

— To work together with people or entities from other countries.

Cientistas colaboram internacionalmente para curar doenças.

Often Confused With

Internacionalmente vs Internamente

This is the opposite! It means 'internally' or 'within a country/company'.

Internacionalmente vs Intencionalmente

Sounds similar but means 'intentionally' or 'on purpose'. Don't mix them up!

Internacionalmente vs Interessantemente

Means 'interestingly'. The similar starting 'Inter-' can be confusing for beginners.

Idioms & Expressions

"Sem fronteiras"

— Literally 'without borders'. Often used alongside internacionalmente to emphasize total freedom of movement.

A informação hoje circula internacionalmente e sem fronteiras.

Neutral/Poetic

"Correr o mundo"

— To travel all over the world or for news to spread everywhere.

A notícia correu o mundo internacionalmente em minutos.

Informal

"Fazer furor"

— To be a huge hit or sensation.

A nova moda está a fazer furor internacionalmente.

Informal

"Estar nas bocas do mundo"

— To be the talk of the town (or the world).

O escândalo pôs o político nas bocas do mundo internacionalmente.

Informal

"De lés a lés"

— From one end to the other. Usually used for a country, but can be adapted for the world.

A marca é conhecida de lés a lés internacionalmente.

Colloquial

"Ter o mundo aos seus pés"

— To have the world at one's feet (to be extremely successful).

Com o novo contrato, ela tem o mundo aos seus pés internacionalmente.

Idiomatic

"Dar cartas"

— To be in charge or to show great skill/dominance.

Portugal está a dar cartas internacionalmente no setor do turismo.

Informal

"Abrir portas"

— To open opportunities.

Falar inglês abre portas internacionalmente.

Neutral

"Pôr o pé no mundo"

— To start traveling or exploring the world.

Ele decidiu pôr o pé no mundo e trabalhar internacionalmente.

Informal

"Aos quatro ventos"

— To the four winds (everywhere).

A notícia foi espalhada aos quatro ventos internacionalmente.

Poetic

Easily Confused

Internacionalmente vs Mundialmente

They are nearly identical in meaning.

Internacionalmente emphasizes the 'between nations' aspect, while mundialmente emphasizes the 'entire world'.

A ONU opera internacionalmente. O sol brilha mundialmente.

Internacionalmente vs Globalmente

Both refer to a large scale.

Globalmente is more common in business strategy and environmental science.

Devemos agir globalmente contra o aquecimento.

Internacionalmente vs No exterior

Used to describe being outside one's country.

No exterior is a prepositional phrase of place, while internacionalmente is an adverb of manner/scope.

Eu moro no exterior. Eu trabalho internacionalmente.

Internacionalmente vs Estrangeiro

Both relate to other countries.

Estrangeiro is a noun (foreigner) or adjective (foreign). Internacionalmente is an adverb.

Ele é um estrangeiro. O filme é internacionalmente famoso.

Internacionalmente vs Universalmente

Both imply a wide reach.

Universalmente is much stronger, implying something is true across the whole universe or for all people without exception.

A gravidade funciona universalmente.

Sentence Patterns

[Subject] é [Adjective] internacionalmente.

O café é bom internacionalmente.

[Subject] [Verb] internacionalmente.

A empresa vende internacionalmente.

É [Adjective] que [Subject] [Subjunctive Verb] internacionalmente.

É bom que o autor seja conhecido internacionalmente.

Internacionalmente, [Clause].

Internacionalmente, o preço do petróleo subiu.

[Subject] tem-se [Past Participle] internacionalmente.

A marca tem-se expandido internacionalmente.

Apesar de [Noun], [Subject] é internacionalmente [Participle].

Apesar de jovem, o pianista é internacionalmente aclamado.

Para [Infinitive], é preciso [Infinitive] internacionalmente.

Para crescer, é preciso competir internacionalmente.

Muitos [Noun] são [Adjective] internacionalmente.

Muitos vinhos são famosos internacionalmente.

Word Family

Nouns

Internacionalização

Internacionalismo

Nação

Nacionalidade

Verbs

Internacionalizar

Nacionalizar

Adjectives

Internacional

Nacional

Multinacional

Binacional

Globalização

Estrangeiro

Fronteira

Mundo

Exterior

How to Use It

frequency

High, especially in written media and professional contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using 'internacionalmente' as an adjective. → Um evento internacional.
You can't say 'um internacionalmente evento'. Adverbs modify verbs or adjectives, not nouns.
Incorrect stress on 'na' (inter-NA-cionalmente). → inter-na-cio-nal-MEN-te.
In Portuguese, the suffix '-mente' always takes the primary stress of the word.
Spelling it 'internacionalamente'. → Internacionalmente.
There is no extra 'a' between the 'l' and the 'm'. It's just the adjective + mente.
Using it for a single trip abroad. → Eu fui ao estrangeiro.
'Internacionalmente' implies a broad scope or a regular occurrence, not a one-time event.
Placing it between 'ser' and the participle. → Ele é conhecido internacionalmente.
While 'Ele é internacionalmente conhecido' is possible, it's much more natural to put the long adverb at the end.

Tips

Nasalize the Start

Don't say 'in' like 'inn'. Say it with a nasal sound, like you're trying to hum through your nose while saying 'ee'. This is key for a native-sounding 'internacionalmente'.

Adverb vs Adjective

Remember: Adjective = Internacional (describes a thing). Adverb = Internacionalmente (describes an action or degree). Don't mix them up!

Start for Emphasis

If you want to sound like a sophisticated journalist, start your sentence with 'Internacionalmente, ...'. It sets a professional tone immediately.

The -mente Rule

Almost any adjective ending in 'l' (like legal, real, fatal) can be turned into an adverb by just adding '-mente'. This word is a great example of that pattern.

Business Buzzword

If you are in a business meeting in Brazil or Portugal, using 'internacionalmente' shows you have a broad, strategic perspective.

Catch the Stress

Listen for the 'MEN'. Portuguese is a syllable-timed language, but these long adverbs have a very clear rhythmic peak on that syllable.

Spelling Check

Make sure you include the 'l' from 'internacional' before the 'mente'. It’s easy to skip it because the word is so long.

Prestige Word

Use this word when you want to compliment someone's success. Saying their work is 'reconhecido internacionalmente' is a high honor.

Cognate Power

Since it's so close to 'internationally', use it as a 'safe' word when you're stuck and want to describe something global.

Interchangeability

Don't be afraid to swap it with 'mundialmente' if you've already used 'internacionalmente' too many times in one paragraph.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'International' + 'Mind' (Mente). It’s like having an 'International Mindset' which allows you to act internationally.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant bridge connecting two countries with the word 'INTERNACIONALMENTE' written across the span.

Word Web

Global Mundo Viagem Negócios Fama Fronteiras Acordos Línguas

Challenge

Try to say 'O Cristiano Ronaldo é internacionalmente reconhecido' five times fast without messing up the stress on 'MEN'.

Word Origin

From the Portuguese adjective 'internacional' combined with the adverbial suffix '-mente'. 'Internacional' comes from the Latin prefix 'inter-' (between) and 'natio' (nation/birth).

Original meaning: Pertaining to the relations between nations.

Romance (Latin-based).

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities. It is a neutral, professional term.

English speakers use 'internationally' in almost identical contexts, making this a very safe 'bridge' word for learners.

The 'Tribunal Penal Internacional' (International Criminal Court). The 'Organização Internacional do Trabalho' (International Labour Organization). Popular news segments titled 'Internacional' on RTP or Globo.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business Expansion

Crescer internacionalmente
Operar internacionalmente
Mercado internacionalmente competitivo
Estratégia internacionalmente focada

Arts and Entertainment

Famoso internacionalmente
Premiado internacionalmente
Sucesso internacionalmente reconhecido
Digressão internacionalmente aclamada

Politics and Law

Acordo internacionalmente assinado
Normas internacionalmente aceites
Condenado internacionalmente
Protegido internacionalmente

Science and Education

Publicado internacionalmente
Colaboração internacionalmente relevante
Diploma internacionalmente válido
Pesquisa internacionalmente citada

Travel and Tourism

Viajar internacionalmente
Destino internacionalmente popular
Padrões internacionalmente exigidos
Guia internacionalmente certificado

Conversation Starters

"Acha que é importante uma empresa portuguesa atuar internacionalmente?"

"Quais são os artistas do seu país que são conhecidos internacionalmente?"

"Gostaria de ter um emprego que o obrigasse a viajar internacionalmente?"

"Na sua opinião, qual é a marca mais famosa internacionalmente hoje em dia?"

"Como é que a cultura do seu país é vista internacionalmente?"

Journal Prompts

Escreva sobre um filme que viu recentemente e que foi um sucesso internacionalmente.

Reflexione sobre as vantagens e desvantagens de trabalhar internacionalmente numa equipa remota.

Descreva uma tradição do seu país que gostaria que fosse mais conhecida internacionalmente.

Imagine que é um empresário. Como planeava expandir o seu negócio internacionalmente?

Discuta a importância de as leis ambientais serem aplicadas internacionalmente.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, it is considered a neutral-to-formal word. It is perfectly appropriate for business meetings, academic papers, and news reports. In very casual speech, people might use 'lá fora' or 'pelo mundo', but 'internacionalmente' is never out of place.

No. In Portuguese, adverbs are invariable. Whether you are talking about one person ('Ele é famoso internacionalmente') or many people ('Eles são famosos internacionalmente'), the word remains exactly the same.

In Portugal, the 'e' at the end is very short, almost like a neutral 'uh'. In Brazil, it is often pronounced like 'chi' (chee). Regardless of the ending, the stress is always on the 'MEN' syllable.

No. You cannot use an adverb to modify a noun directly. You should use the adjective 'internacional' (um evento internacional) or use the adverb to modify an adjective (um evento internacionalmente famoso).

They are often interchangeable. However, 'internacionalmente' focuses on the relations and borders between countries, while 'mundialmente' focuses on the world as a whole. 'Mundialmente' sounds slightly more poetic or all-encompassing.

It is always 'internacionalmente'. The suffix is -mente, derived from the Latin word for mind (mens). Using a 'd' is a common mistake for some Spanish speakers or English speakers confusing it with other suffixes.

Usually after the verb (Ele viaja internacionalmente) or after the adjective it modifies (Internacionalmente famoso). You can also put it at the very beginning of a sentence for emphasis, followed by a comma.

Not really, though 'globalmente' is a bit shorter. If you want to avoid the long word, you can say 'em todo o mundo' (in the whole world) or 'lá fora' (abroad/out there).

Yes, the meaning and usage are identical in both varieties of Portuguese. The only major difference is the pronunciation of the final 'te' syllable.

Yes, but usually only if you travel to many countries or travel as a lifestyle. If you just went to Spain once, you wouldn't say 'Eu viajei internacionalmente'. You would say 'Eu fui ao estrangeiro'.