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跨国公司

B1 noun 12 min read

跨国公司

kuaguo gongsi

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 跨国公司 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 跨国公司 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to understand the very basic idea of '跨国公司'. Think of it as a 'very big company' (很大很大家的公司) that exists in many countries like China, the USA, and England. You might recognize famous names like McDonald's or Apple as examples. At this stage, you don't need to worry about the complex economics. Just remember that '跨' means cross, '国' means country, and '公司' means company. If you can say '我喜欢这家跨国公司' (I like this MNC), you are doing great! Focus on the fact that these companies are everywhere in the world. You will see their logos on the street and their products in shops. It is a noun that describes a big group of people working together across the globe. Even at A1, knowing this word helps you understand the world around you in Chinese-speaking environments.

For A2 learners, '跨国公司' is a useful word for talking about jobs and the city. You should be able to use it with simple adjectives and verbs. For example, '他在跨国公司工作' (He works at an MNC) or '这家跨国公司很有名' (This MNC is very famous). You are beginning to understand that these companies are different from small local shops (小商店). You might also start to notice the measure word '家' (jiā) used with it. At this level, you should be able to identify a few 跨国公司 in your own country and talk about them simply. It's about expanding your vocabulary to include common professional terms that you see in advertisements or on signs in big cities like Shanghai. You are moving beyond just 'company' to a more specific type of company.

At the B1 level, where this word is officially categorized, you should understand '跨国公司' in the context of career planning and general news. You can discuss why someone might want to work for an MNC—perhaps for a higher salary (高工资), better benefits (福利), or the chance to travel abroad (出国). You should be able to use the word in more complex sentences, such as '跨国公司在全球经济中扮演着重要的角色' (MNCs play an important role in the global economy). You are now aware of the difference between a 跨国公司 and a local enterprise (本土企业). You can also use related terms like '外企' (foreign enterprise) in conversation. This is the stage where you start to read short business news articles where this term appears frequently. You understand that these entities are complex and have a significant impact on society.

At the B2 level, your understanding of '跨国公司' becomes more professional. You can discuss their strategies, such as '市场扩张' (market expansion) or '本土化' (localization). You are able to listen to a news report about an MNC's quarterly results and understand the key points. You can debate the pros and cons of MNCs, such as their contribution to technology transfer versus their potential to dominate local markets. Your vocabulary around this word expands to include collocations like '跨国公司总部' (MNC headquarters) or '跨国公司投资' (MNC investment). You can write a short essay or give a presentation about the influence of a specific 跨国公司 on the Chinese market. You are comfortable using the term in both formal writing and professional discussions, and you can distinguish it from other related business terms with precision.

By C1, '跨国公司' is a word you use with total fluency in academic and high-level professional contexts. You can analyze the '全球价值链' (global value chain) and the role of MNCs within it. You understand the legal and tax implications of being a 跨国公司, such as '转让定价' (transfer pricing) and '双重征税' (double taxation). You can read complex legal documents or economic journals that discuss the regulatory challenges faced by these entities. You are also aware of the cultural and sociological critiques of 跨国公司, such as their role in 'cultural imperialism' or their environmental impact. You can use the term to discuss sophisticated topics like '企业社会责任' (Corporate Social Responsibility) and how MNCs balance global standards with local expectations. Your use of the word is nuanced, and you can switch between synonyms like '跨国集团' or '全球性企业' to convey specific shades of meaning.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of the term '跨国公司' and the vast array of concepts it encompasses. You can engage in high-level debates about the future of the 跨国公司 in a 'de-globalizing' world. You can analyze the geopolitical tensions involving MNCs, such as the 'tech war' between major powers. You understand the intricate history of how the concept of the 跨国公司 has evolved in Chinese economic thought from the early 20th century to the present. You can use the term in creative writing, professional speeches, or deep academic research. You are able to critique the most complex financial structures of these companies and discuss their impact on global governance and international law. For you, '跨国公司' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a gateway to understanding the deepest complexities of the modern world order, and you can articulate these ideas with the precision of a native-speaking expert.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

跨国公司 in 30 Seconds

A formal noun meaning 'multinational corporation', describing businesses with global operations and physical presence in multiple nations.
Composed of 'cross' (跨), 'country' (国), and 'company' (公司), it is a foundational term for business Chinese learners at the B1 level.
Commonly used in news, job hunting, and academic contexts to discuss globalization, investment, and international career paths.
Requires the measure word '家' (jiā) and is distinct from '外企' (foreign enterprise), which focuses on foreign ownership relative to China.

The term 跨国公司 (kuàguó gōngsī) is a quintessential business term in modern Mandarin, representing the pinnacle of corporate globalization. At its core, the word is a compound of three distinct concepts: kuà (跨), meaning to step over, straddle, or cross; guó (国), meaning country or nation; and gōngsī (公司), the standard word for company or corporation. When combined, they describe an entity that 'straddles nations.' This is not merely a company that exports goods, but one that has physical operations, offices, or manufacturing plants in multiple sovereign territories. In the context of the Chinese economic landscape, the rise of the 跨国公司 has been a defining feature of the post-1978 'Reform and Opening-up' era. Initially, the term almost exclusively referred to Western giants like Coca-Cola, IBM, or Volkswagen entering the Chinese market. Today, however, the term is equally applicable to Chinese giants like Huawei, TikTok (ByteDance), or Lenovo, which have successfully transitioned into 跨国公司 themselves. You will hear this word in professional settings, news broadcasts, university lectures on economics, and career-related discussions. It carries a connotation of scale, prestige, and complexity. To work for a 跨国公司 often implies a certain level of professional proficiency, likely requiring bilingual skills and the ability to navigate diverse cultural environments. It is a B1-level word because while the components are simple, the concept requires an understanding of modern economic structures.

Literal Breakdown: 跨 (kuà): To cross or stride over. Think of a bridge crossing a river. 国 (guó): Country. 公司 (gōngsī): Company. Literally: 'Cross-country company'.

他在一家知名的跨国公司担任高级经理。(He serves as a senior manager in a well-known multinational corporation.)

Economic Significance: MNCs are seen as drivers of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). In Chinese policy discussions, attracting 跨国公司 is often linked to technology transfer and job creation.

这家跨国公司在全球拥有超过十万名员工。(This multinational corporation has over 100,000 employees globally.)

Furthermore, the usage of 跨国公司 extends into the realm of sociology and politics. Critics might discuss the 'monopoly' (垄断) of 跨国公司 or their impact on local cultures. Conversely, business students study their 'global strategy' (全球战略). It is a versatile noun that fits perfectly into sentences describing career aspirations, market trends, or the effects of globalization. When you use this word, you are signaling an awareness of the world beyond local borders. It is not just a big company; it is a company that operates as a network across the planet. For a learner, mastering this word opens up the ability to discuss complex topics like trade wars, supply chains, and international labor markets. It is a foundational block for business Chinese.

为了进入中国市场，许多跨国公司调整了他们的营销策略。(To enter the Chinese market, many MNCs adjusted their marketing strategies.)

Common Collocations: 大型 (dàxíng - large-scale), 知名 (zhīmíng - famous), 投资 (tóuzī - invest), 总部 (zǒngbù - headquarters).

这家跨国公司的总部设在纽约。(The headquarters of this multinational corporation is located in New York.)

随着全球化的发展，越来越多的中国企业变成了跨国公司。(With the development of globalization, more and more Chinese enterprises have become multinational corporations.)

Using 跨国公司 correctly involves understanding its role as a formal noun. It usually functions as the subject or object of a sentence, often modified by adjectives that describe its scale, origin, or reputation. Because it refers to a collective entity, it can be paired with verbs related to management, investment, expansion, and competition. For instance, if you are talking about your career goals, you might say '我想去跨国公司工作' (I want to work at an MNC). If you are analyzing the economy, you might say '跨国公司对当地经济有很大影响' (MNCs have a great impact on the local economy). Note that the word itself is quite formal; in a casual chat with friends, you might simply say '大公司' (big company) or '外企' (foreign company), but in any professional or academic context, 跨国公司 is the standard. It is also important to note that while '跨国' means 'cross-national', the term is used for companies that are truly global, not just those operating in two countries. The structure of the word allows it to be used in various grammatical patterns.

As a Subject: 跨国公司通常拥有先进的管理经验。(Multinational corporations usually possess advanced management experience.) Here, it acts as the agent of the sentence.

这家跨国公司计划在上海建立研发中心。(This MNC plans to establish an R&D center in Shanghai.)

As an Object: 政府正在努力吸引更多的跨国公司来投资。(The government is working hard to attract more MNCs to invest.) Here, it is the recipient of the action 'attract'.

很多大学毕业生都希望能进入跨国公司工作。(Many university graduates hope to enter MNCs to work.)

When describing the actions of these companies, use verbs like 扩张 (kuòzhāng - expand), 竞争 (jìngzhēng - compete), or 合作 (hézuò - cooperate). For example, '跨国公司之间的竞争非常激烈' (The competition between MNCs is very intense). If you want to specify the industry, you can place the industry name before the term, such as '科技跨国公司' (tech MNC) or '制药跨国公司' (pharmaceutical MNC). This demonstrates the flexibility of the term in professional Chinese. Additionally, you can use the measure word '家' (jiā) for companies, as in '一家跨国公司' (one MNC). Using the correct measure word is vital for sounding natural. In writing, you might also see the abbreviation 'MNC' in English-language documents in China, but in spoken Chinese, the full four characters are always used.

作为一家跨国公司，他们必须遵守不同国家的法律。(As an MNC, they must abide by the laws of different countries.)

Complex Usage: In C1/C2 level contexts, you might discuss '跨国公司的本土化策略' (localization strategies of MNCs), which refers to how these companies adapt to the Chinese market specifically.

这家跨国公司通过收购当地企业来快速扩张。(This MNC expands rapidly by acquiring local enterprises.)

在全球经济不景气的情况下，跨国公司也面临着巨大的挑战。(Under the circumstances of a global economic downturn, MNCs also face huge challenges.)

The word 跨国公司 is a staple of the Chinese business lexicon and is encountered in several specific environments. First and foremost, you will hear it in the **news and media**. Financial news programs like CCTV-2 (the finance channel) or news apps like Caixin and Sina Finance frequently use it when reporting on quarterly earnings, international trade disputes, or mergers and acquisitions. For example, a headline might read '某跨国公司宣布在华加大投资' (A certain MNC announces increased investment in China). Secondly, it is a common term in **higher education**. If you are a student in China or taking a Chinese course on economics, management, or international relations, your textbooks and professors will use 跨国公司 to discuss globalization theories, supply chain management, and corporate social responsibility. It is the formal academic term for these entities. Thirdly, you will encounter it in **professional recruitment**. Job portals like Zhaopin or Liepin often have a filter for '跨国公司' or '外企' to help candidates find positions in international environments. In job interviews, an interviewer might ask, '你为什么想加入我们这家跨国公司？' (Why do you want to join our multinational corporation?). Lastly, it appears in **government policy and official documents**. When the Chinese government discusses 'Foreign Direct Investment' (FDI) or 'Special Economic Zones' (SEZ), they often refer to the role of 跨国公司 in bringing technology and capital to the region. Understanding this word is essential for anyone looking to navigate the 'white-collar' (白领) world in China's tier-1 cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Shenzhen, where these companies have a massive presence.

TV & News: Used in reports about 'Fortune 500' (世界500强) companies, which are almost all MNCs.

新闻报道说，这家跨国公司将裁员五千人。(News reports say this MNC will lay off 5,000 people.)

In the Office: Used when discussing internal global policies, such as 'The MNC's global compliance standards'.

在跨国公司工作需要良好的跨文化沟通能力。(Working in an MNC requires good cross-cultural communication skills.)

Beyond these formal settings, the word is also heard in **social discussions about the 'rat race' (内卷)**. Many young professionals debate whether it is better to work for a stable 跨国公司 with fixed hours or a fast-paced Chinese 'Internet giant' (互联网大厂). In this context, 跨国公司 often represents a more standardized, Western-style management approach. You might hear someone say, '跨国公司的福利通常比较好' (The benefits of MNCs are usually better). Furthermore, in **legal and tax contexts**, the term is used to discuss 'Transfer Pricing' (转让定价) or 'Tax Havens' (避税天堂). The word is ubiquitous because the entities it describes are ubiquitous. Whether you are buying a smartphone, drinking a coffee, or using software, you are likely interacting with a 跨国公司. Thus, the word is not just business jargon; it is a description of the modern lifestyle and economic reality in 21st-century China.

这家跨国公司在中国已经有三十年的历史了。(This MNC has a thirty-year history in China.)

Academic Context: Discussion of 'MNCs and the Global Value Chain' (跨国公司与全球价值链).

为了吸引跨国公司，政府出台了许多优惠政策。(To attract MNCs, the government has introduced many preferential policies.)

这家跨国公司的CEO下周将访问北京。(The CEO of this MNC will visit Beijing next week.)

While 跨国公司 seems straightforward, learners often make several nuanced mistakes. The most common error is **confusing it with 国际公司 (guójì gōngsī)**. While '国际' means 'international', in Chinese business terminology, '跨国公司' is the standard technical term for a multinational corporation. '国际公司' sounds more like a general description and is rarely used as a formal title. Another frequent mistake is **using the wrong measure word**. Learners might use '个' (gè), which is the generic measure word, but for companies, businesses, or shops, you should almost always use **'家' (jiā)**. Saying '一个跨国公司' is understandable but sounds unpolished; '一家跨国公司' is the correct, professional way. A third common pitfall is **misunderstanding the scope**. Some learners use 跨国公司 to describe any company that does business abroad. However, if a company only exports products but has no foreign offices or assets, it is an '出口公司' (export company) or just a company with 'international business' (国际业务), not necessarily a 跨国公司. To be a 跨国公司, there must be a 'cross-border' presence in terms of management or production. This is a subtle but important distinction in business Chinese.

Mistake 1: Terminology: Using '国际公司' instead of '跨国公司'. Rule: Use '跨国公司' for the entity, '国际' for the scope of business (e.g., 国际贸易 - international trade).

❌ 我在一家国际公司工作。
✅ 我在一家跨国公司工作。

Mistake 2: Measure Words: Using '个' instead of '家'. Rule: Use '家' for business establishments.

❌ 这一个跨国公司很大。
✅ 这家跨国公司很大。

Fourthly, learners often **overuse '的' (de)**. While '跨国的公司' is grammatically correct, '跨国公司' has become a fixed four-character compound. Adding '的' makes it sound slightly less like a professional term and more like a descriptive phrase. Fifthly, there is the **confusion with '外企' (wàiqǐ)**. While all foreign MNCs in China are '外企', not all '外企' are large MNCs (some might be small foreign-owned consulting firms). Furthermore, a Chinese company like Huawei is a 跨国公司 but is *not* an '外企' in China. Using these terms interchangeably in a business report would be a factual error. Lastly, pay attention to the word **'跨国' (kuàguó)** itself. It should not be used alone as a noun to mean 'MNC'. You must include '公司' or '企业' (qǐyè - enterprise). For example, don't say '他在跨国工作' if you mean he works for an MNC; say '他在跨国公司工作'. Understanding these nuances will make your Chinese sound much more professional and precise.

❌ 华为是一家外企。
✅ 华为是一家跨国公司。

Mistake 3: Overuse of '的': Avoid '跨国的公司' in formal titles. Use the fixed compound '跨国公司'.

❌ 跨国的公司的战略。
✅ 跨国公司的战略。

❌ 这家跨国很大。
✅ 这家跨国公司规模很大。

Understanding the synonyms and related terms for 跨国公司 helps you choose the right word for the right context. The most common related term is **外企 (wàiqǐ)**, which is an abbreviation for '外资企业' (foreign-invested enterprise). While 跨国公司 refers to the global nature of the company, 外企 specifically identifies it as a foreign company operating within China. Another similar term is **全球性企业 (quánqiúxìng qǐyè)**, meaning 'global enterprise'. This is even broader than 跨国公司 and is often used in high-level strategic discussions to describe companies that view the whole world as a single market. **跨国集团 (kuàguó jítuán)** is another variation, where '集团' means 'group' or 'conglomerate'. This is used when the MNC consists of many subsidiaries and different business units. If you are talking specifically about the 'enterprise' aspect rather than the 'company' aspect, you might use **跨国企业 (kuàguó qǐyè)**. In formal economic literature, these are almost interchangeable, though '企业' sounds slightly more formal and encompassing than '公司'.

Comparison: 跨国公司 vs. 外企: '跨国公司' emphasizes the global structure. '外企' emphasizes the foreign ownership relative to China. A Chinese company can be a 跨国公司, but it can never be an 外企 in China.

比较：
1. 这家跨国公司在五十个国家有业务。(Global focus)
2. 我想去外企工作，因为工资高。(Local employment focus)

Comparison: 跨国公司 vs. 跨国集团: '集团' (Group) implies a larger, more complex structure with multiple sub-companies. Think of 'Alphabet' as a 集团 and 'Google' as a 公司.

三星是一个巨大的跨国集团。(Samsung is a huge multinational group.)

For more specific contexts, you might use **多国公司 (duōguó gōngsī)**, which is a literal translation of 'multinational company', but it is much less common than 跨国公司. In the world of finance, you might hear about **国际巨头 (guójì jùtóu)**, meaning 'international giant'. This is a more journalistic and colorful way to describe a dominant 跨国公司. When discussing the headquarters, the term **母公司 (mǔgōngsī)** (parent company) is often used in relation to its **子公司 (zǐgōngsī)** (subsidiaries) across borders. Understanding these variations allows you to read financial reports and business news with much greater clarity. It also helps you avoid repetitive language in your own writing and speaking. For instance, you could start a paragraph using 跨国公司 and later refer to it as a 跨国企业 or a 国际巨头 to keep the text engaging.

这些国际巨头控制着全球大部分的市场份额。(These international giants control most of the global market share.)

Formal vs. Informal: Formal: 跨国公司, 跨国企业. Informal/Colloquial: 外企, 大公司.

这家跨国企业非常重视员工的职业发展。(This multinational enterprise attaches great importance to the career development of its employees.)

相比于本土企业，跨国公司往往有更完善的培训体系。(Compared to local enterprises, MNCs often have more complete training systems.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '跨' (kuà) originally depicted a person taking a large step, emphasizing the physical act of crossing a boundary, which perfectly suits the nature of global business.

Pronunciation Guide

UK kuà guó gōng sī

US kuà guó gōng sī

Stress is usually balanced, but 'kuà' (4th tone) often sounds more emphatic.

Rhymes With

司 (sī) rhymes with 衣 (yī), 鸡 (jī), 稀 (xī). 国 (guó) rhymes with 活 (huó), 夺 (duó). 跨 (kuà) rhymes with 怕 (pà), 骂 (mà). 公 (gōng) rhymes with 东 (dōng), 红 (hóng). 词 (cí) 丝 (sī) 私 (sī) 思 (sī)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'kuà' as 1st tone (kuā), which means 'to boast'.
Slurring 'gōngsī' into one syllable.
Failing to rise enough on 'guó'.
Adding a 'u' sound to 'sī' (should be a buzzy dental sound).
Confusing 'kuà' with 'kuài' (fast).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize characters but requires understanding of business context.

Writing 4/5

The character '跨' can be tricky to write from memory.

Speaking 3/5

Four syllables, easy to pronounce if tones are mastered.

Listening 3/5

Common in news; easy to pick out once known.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

公司国家工作大有名

Learn Next

全球化投资战略本土化供应链

Advanced

自由贸易资本运作兼并收购核心竞争力企业社会责任

Grammar to Know

Measure Word '家' for Businesses

一家跨国公司 (One MNC).

Compound Nouns without '的'

跨国公司战略 (MNC strategy).

Preposition '在' for Workplace

他在跨国公司工作。(He works at an MNC.)

Verb '进入' for Joining a Company

进入跨国公司很难。(Entering an MNC is hard.)

Adjective '知名的' for Reputation

知名的跨国公司 (Well-known MNC).

Examples by Level

这是一家跨国公司。

This is a multinational corporation.

Simple Subject + Verb + Object structure.

跨国公司很大。

Multinational corporations are very big.

Noun + Adjective structure.

他在跨国公司工作。

He works at a multinational corporation.

Using '在...工作' (work at...).

我喜欢跨国公司。

I like multinational corporations.

Simple 'Subject + Like + Object'.

这家跨国公司很有名。

This multinational corporation is very famous.

Using '很有名' (very famous).

那里有一家跨国公司。

There is a multinational corporation there.

Existential sentence using '有'.

跨国公司有很多员工。

Multinational corporations have many employees.

Using '有很多' (have many).

跨国公司在上海。

The multinational corporation is in Shanghai.

Using '在' for location.

我想进入一家跨国公司。

I want to enter a multinational corporation.

Using '想' (want) + '进入' (enter).

跨国公司的工资很高。

The salary of MNCs is very high.

Possessive '的' used with '工资' (salary).

这家跨国公司卖咖啡。

This multinational corporation sells coffee.

Specific verb '卖' (sell).

他们是跨国公司的员工。

They are employees of an MNC.

Plural '他们' (they).

你认识这家跨国公司吗？

Do you know this multinational corporation?

Question with '吗'.

跨国公司有很多办公室。

MNCs have many offices.

Plural object '办公室'.

这家跨国公司来自美国。

This MNC comes from the USA.

Using '来自' (come from).

在跨国公司工作很累。

Working in an MNC is very tiring.

Using a phrase as a subject.

跨国公司对当地经济有很大影响。

MNCs have a great impact on the local economy.

Structure '对...有影响' (have an impact on...).

许多跨国公司在中国投资。

Many MNCs invest in China.

Using the verb '投资' (invest).

进入跨国公司需要面试三次。

Entering an MNC requires three interviews.

Using '需要' (require/need).

这家跨国公司的总部在纽约。

The headquarters of this MNC is in New York.

Key term '总部' (headquarters).

跨国公司通常提供很好的福利。

MNCs usually provide very good benefits.

Key term '福利' (benefits).

他在一家知名的跨国公司实习。

He is interning at a well-known MNC.

Key term '实习' (intern).

这家跨国公司正在招聘经理。

This MNC is currently recruiting managers.

Key term '招聘' (recruit).

跨国公司竞争非常激烈。

Competition among MNCs is very intense.

Key term '竞争' (competition).

为了适应市场，跨国公司必须本土化。

To adapt to the market, MNCs must localize.

Key term '本土化' (localization).

跨国公司通过收购来扩大规模。

MNCs expand their scale through acquisitions.

Key term '收购' (acquisition).

这家跨国公司面临着法律诉讼。

This MNC is facing a lawsuit.

Key term '法律诉讼' (lawsuit).

跨国公司的全球战略非常复杂。

The global strategy of MNCs is very complex.

Key term '全球战略' (global strategy).

很多跨国公司在上海设立了研发中心。

Many MNCs have established R&D centers in Shanghai.

Key term '研发中心' (R&D center).

跨国公司需要考虑跨文化管理。

MNCs need to consider cross-cultural management.

Key term '跨文化管理' (cross-cultural management).

这家跨国公司的利润去年增长了10%。

The profit of this MNC grew by 10% last year.

Key term '利润' (profit).

跨国公司在全球供应链中处于核心地位。

MNCs occupy a core position in the global supply chain.

Key term '供应链' (supply chain).

跨国公司的垄断行为引起了政府的关注。

The monopolistic behavior of MNCs has attracted the government's attention.

Key term '垄断行为' (monopolistic behavior).

跨国公司通过避税天堂来减少税收支出。

MNCs reduce tax expenses through tax havens.

Key term '避税天堂' (tax haven).

跨国公司对主权国家的经济政策有一定影响力。

MNCs have a certain influence on the economic policies of sovereign states.

Key term '主权国家' (sovereign state).

跨国公司必须平衡全球标准化与地方差异。

MNCs must balance global standardization with local differences.

Key term '全球标准化' (global standardization).

这家跨国公司深陷公关危机。

This MNC is deep in a PR crisis.

Key term '公关危机' (PR crisis).

跨国公司的社会责任感越来越受到重视。

The social responsibility of MNCs is receiving more and more attention.

Key term '社会责任感' (social responsibility).

跨国公司的转让定价策略受到了严厉审计。

The transfer pricing strategy of MNCs has been severely audited.

Key term '转让定价' (transfer pricing).

跨国公司的扩张往往伴随着技术的转移。

The expansion of MNCs is often accompanied by technology transfer.

Key term '技术转移' (technology transfer).

在全球化退潮的背景下，跨国公司面临重塑。

Against the backdrop of ebbing globalization, MNCs face reshaping.

Key term '全球化退潮' (deglobalization).

跨国公司在跨国法律体系中的地位尚不明确。

The status of MNCs in the transnational legal system is not yet clear.

Key term '跨国法律体系' (transnational legal system).

这些跨国公司通过资本运作来实现跨行业扩张。

These MNCs achieve cross-industry expansion through capital operations.

Key term '资本运作' (capital operations).

跨国公司的文化霸权主义遭到了许多学者的批评。

The cultural hegemony of MNCs has been criticized by many scholars.

Key term '文化霸权主义' (cultural hegemony).

跨国公司对全球治理结构的演变起到了催化作用。

MNCs have played a catalytic role in the evolution of global governance structures.

Key term '催化作用' (catalytic role).

跨国公司的内部管理机制具有高度的科层化特征。

The internal management mechanisms of MNCs are highly hierarchical.

Key term '科层化' (hierarchical).

跨国公司通过游说集团来影响国际贸易协议。

MNCs influence international trade agreements through lobbying groups.

Key term '游说集团' (lobbying group).

探讨跨国公司的去领土化特征是当代社会学的课题。

Exploring the deterritorialized characteristics of MNCs is a subject of contemporary sociology.

Key term '去领土化' (deterritorialization).

Synonyms

外企跨国企业全球性企业跨国集团国际巨头多国公司大公司跨国机构

Antonyms

本土企业本地公司小微企业国内公司

Common Collocations

大型跨国公司

知名跨国公司

跨国公司总部

跨国公司投资

跨国公司管理

跨国公司战略

吸引跨国公司

跨国公司员工

跨国公司高管

顶尖跨国公司

Common Phrases

跨国公司本土化

— The process of an MNC adapting to a local market.

跨国公司本土化是成功的关键。

进入跨国公司

— To join or start working for an MNC.

进入跨国公司是很多人的目标。

跨国公司分部

— A branch or office of an MNC in a specific location.

这家跨国公司在北京有分部。

跨国公司文化

— The corporate culture within a multinational firm.

跨国公司文化通常比较多元。

跨国公司招聘

— Recruitment activities by a multinational company.

他关注着跨国公司招聘信息。

跨国公司并购

— Mergers and acquisitions performed by an MNC.

跨国公司并购在近年来非常频繁。

跨国公司税务

— Tax issues related to multinational operations.

跨国公司税务问题非常复杂。

跨国公司规则

— Internal rules or global standards of an MNC.

我们要遵守跨国公司的规则。

跨国公司背景

— Having experience working for an MNC.

他有深厚的跨国公司背景。

跨国公司扩张

— The global expansion of a multinational firm.

跨国公司扩张需要大量资金。

Often Confused With

跨国公司 vs 国际公司

Sounds less professional; '跨国公司' is the standard term.

跨国公司 vs 外企

Refers only to foreign companies; a Chinese MNC is not an '外企' in China.

跨国公司 vs 跨国集团

'集团' implies a larger conglomerate with multiple sub-entities.

Idioms & Expressions

"富可敌国"

— Wealthy enough to rival a nation. Often used to describe massive MNCs.

有些跨国公司真是富可敌国。

Literary/Hyperbolic

"纵横天下"

— To move through the world with ease and dominance.

这些跨国公司在市场上纵横天下。

Figurative

"独占鳌头"

— To be at the very top or lead the field.

这家跨国公司在科技领域独占鳌头。

Formal

"步步为营"

— To advance cautiously and consolidate every step. Used for MNC strategy.

跨国公司在进入新市场时往往步步为营。

Strategic

"遍布全球"

— Spread all over the world.

这家跨国公司的业务遍布全球。

Common

"大鱼吃小鱼"

— The big fish eat the little fish. Used for MNC acquisitions.

在跨国公司的竞争中，往往是大鱼吃小鱼。

Colloquial

"入乡随俗"

— When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Used for localization.

跨国公司必须入乡随俗，才能赢得当地消费者。

Common

"互利共赢"

— Mutually beneficial and win-win.

跨国公司与当地政府寻求互利共赢。

Formal

"日新月异"

— Changing with each passing day. Used for MNC tech speed.

跨国公司的技术更新日新月异。

Formal

"名副其实"

— Worthy of the name; the real deal.

它是一家名副其实的跨国公司。

Formal

Easily Confused

跨国公司 vs 国际 (guójì)

Both relate to multiple countries.

国际 is an adjective meaning 'international'; 跨国公司 is a specific noun for a corporation.

这是国际贸易，不是跨国公司。

跨国公司 vs 外资 (wàizī)

Both relate to foreign involvement.

外资 refers to 'foreign capital' or investment; 跨国公司 is the entity itself.

这家公司有外资背景。

跨国公司 vs 全球 (quánqiú)

Both mean worldwide.

全球 means 'global/the whole world'. It is often used to modify 跨国公司 (e.g., 全球跨国公司).

全球化影响了跨国公司。

跨国公司 vs 出口 (chūkǒu)

Relates to doing business abroad.

出口 means 'export'. A company can export without being a 跨国公司 (no foreign offices).

这是一家出口公司。

跨国公司 vs 合资 (hézī)

Involves international partnership.

合资 refers to a 'joint venture' between two companies, often a local one and an MNC.

他们成立了一家合资公司。

Sentence Patterns

这是[Name]跨国公司。

这是苹果跨国公司。

他在一家[Adjective]跨国公司工作。

他在一家大跨国公司工作。

我想进入跨国公司，因为[Reason]。

我想进入跨国公司，因为工资高。

跨国公司对[Noun]有影响。

跨国公司对市场有影响。

为了[Goal]，跨国公司采取了[Strategy]。

为了扩张，跨国公司采取了降价策略。

这家跨国公司总部位于[City]。

这家跨国公司总部位于伦敦。

跨国公司的[Noun]引起了广泛的争议。

跨国公司的避税行为引起了广泛的争议。

探讨跨国公司的[Abstract Noun]是必要的。

探讨跨国公司的去领土化特征是必要的。

Word Family

Nouns

公司 (Company)

企业 (Enterprise)

集团 (Group)

总部 (Headquarters)

分公司 (Branch)

Verbs

跨越 (To cross/leap over)

经营 (To operate/manage)

投资 (To invest)

扩张 (To expand)

Adjectives

跨国的 (Multinational/Transnational)

国际的 (International)

全球的 (Global)

外资的 (Foreign-funded)

全球化 (Globalization)

外企 (Foreign enterprise)

合资企业 (Joint venture)

贸易 (Trade)

供应链 (Supply chain)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in business and news domains.

Common Mistakes

Using '个' as a measure word. → 一家跨国公司
Businesses use '家' as their specific measure word.
Calling Huawei an '外企'. → 华为是一家跨国公司。
Huawei is Chinese, so it's not a 'foreign enterprise' (外企) in China, even though it's an MNC.
Saying '跨国的公司' in a formal title. → 跨国公司战略
The '的' is unnecessary and makes the term sound less like a fixed professional compound.
Confusing '跨国' with '国际'. → 跨国公司
'国际公司' is rarely used; '跨国公司' is the standard economic term.
Mispronouncing '跨' as 'kuā'. → kuà (4th tone)
The 4th tone is required; the 1st tone means 'to boast'.

Tips

Use for Career Goals

When someone asks about your career, saying '我想在跨国公司工作' sounds very ambitious and clear.

Measure Word Precision

Always use '一家' or '这家'. This small detail makes you sound much more like a native speaker.

MNC vs. Local

Understand that in China, working for an MNC often implies a different work-life balance compared to local '996' culture.

News Keywords

MNCs are usually mentioned alongside '全球化' (globalization) and '投资' (investment). Listen for these together.

Formal Reports

In business reports, use the full term '跨国公司' rather than '外企' for maximum professionalism.

Tone Accuracy

The fourth tone on '跨' is crucial. Make it short and sharp.

Related Nouns

Learn '总部' (headquarters) and '分部' (branch) along with this word.

Business Settings

This is a 'white-collar' word. You won't use it much at a vegetable market, but you'll use it every day in an office building.

Contrast with SMEs

Contrast '跨国公司' with '中小企业' (SMEs) when discussing economic structures.

The 'Step' Character

Remember '跨' has the 'foot' radical (⻊), reminding you of 'stepping' across borders.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a giant (跨 - taking a big step) stepping over (国 - countries) to open a (公司 - company).

Visual Association

A giant bridge connecting two skyscrapers in different countries with a dollar sign on it.

Word Web

Globalization Import/Export Foreign Investment Headquarters Branch CEO Global Market Localization

Challenge

Try to name three 跨国公司 in Chinese and explain which countries they are from using '来自'.

Word Origin

The term is a modern loan-translation (calque) from the English 'multinational corporation'. It gained widespread use in China during the late 20th century as the country integrated into the global economy.

Original meaning: A company that straddles multiple countries.

Sino-Tibetan (Mandarin Chinese).

Cultural Context

Be aware that in some political contexts, MNCs are criticized for labor practices or tax avoidance.

MNCs are often discussed in terms of their ethical impact and branding power.

Fortune 500 (世界500强) The term 'Globalist' Silicon Valley giants

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Job Interview

你为什么想在跨国公司工作？
我有跨国公司的实习经验。
跨国公司的文化很吸引我。
我想在国际化的环境中发展。

Business News

某跨国公司宣布裁员。
跨国公司在华投资增加。
这家跨国公司发布了财报。
跨国公司面临新的监管。

University Lecture

跨国公司是全球化的动力。
我们来讨论跨国公司的管理。
跨国公司如何影响当地就业？
跨国公司的法律地位。

Social Discussion

跨国公司的福利真的好吗？
他在跨国公司工作，经常出差。
跨国公司和本土公司的区别。
现在的跨国公司也不好进。

Travel/City Life

那是那家跨国公司的办公楼。
很多跨国公司都在这个区。
这家商场里都是跨国品牌。
跨国公司改变了城市的面貌。

Conversation Starters

"你觉得在跨国公司工作和在本地公司工作有什么区别？"

"如果你可以选择，你想去哪家跨国公司工作？"

"跨国公司对你国家的经济有什么影响？"

"你认为跨国公司应该更注重利润还是社会责任？"

"在跨国公司工作需要具备哪些最重要的素质？"

Journal Prompts

写一写你梦想中的跨国公司是什么样的。

讨论一下跨国公司对全球化的贡献和挑战。

如果你是一家跨国公司的CEO，你会如何管理不同国家的员工？

描述一下你在一家跨国公司面试或工作的经历（如果没有，可以想象）。

分析一家你熟悉的跨国公司是如何在你的国家获得成功的。

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it refers to any company operating in multiple countries. Many Chinese companies like Huawei and Lenovo are also 跨国公司. The term is neutral regarding the country of origin.

跨国公司 describes the global nature of the company. 外企 (Foreign Enterprise) is used in China to describe any company with foreign ownership. An MNC can be an 外企, but not all MNCs are 外企 (if they are Chinese).

Usually, no. It is a fixed compound noun. Adding '的' (跨国的公司) makes it sound more like a description ('a company that is multinational') rather than the standard name of the entity.

The most appropriate measure word is '家' (jiā). Using '个' (gè) is common among beginners but is considered less professional.

Yes, it is typically introduced at the B1 level because it involves abstract business concepts beyond basic daily survival vocabulary.

Technically, if a small company has offices in two countries, it is 'multinational'. However, in practice, 跨国公司 almost always refers to large, significant corporations.

In formal Chinese, no. In casual speech, people might say '外企' or '大公司'. There is no common acronym like 'MNC' used in spoken Mandarin.

You say '跨国公司总部' (kuàguó gōngsī zǒngbù).

Commonly cited benefits include higher salaries (高工资), international exposure (国际化视野), and better training systems (完善的培训体系).

Yes, it is a standard term throughout the Chinese-speaking world, though some local variations in business jargon exist.