foreign affairs

American  

plural noun

1. activities of a nation in its relationships with other nations; international relations.

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foreign affairs British  

plural noun

1. matters abroad that involve the homeland, such as relations with another country

2. matters that do not involve the homeland

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Etymology

Origin of foreign affairs

First recorded in 1605–15

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

foreign affairs

The targets included an institute specialized in sensitive technologies backed by the minister of defense, networks of the defense and foreign affairs ministries, and an entity in France’s judicial sector.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 13, 2026

The 15-page report was sent to New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his ministers for defence, foreign affairs, and intelligence.

From Barron's ● Jun. 26, 2026

Someone who knows Miliband told the BBC he would be "a massive asset to Andy Burnham's cabinet," citing his work on the international stage in foreign affairs, humanitarian action and climate change.

From BBC ● Jun. 26, 2026

Greenspan’s wife, Andrea Mitchell, shared the news of his death in a statement provided to NBC News, where she is chief Washington correspondent and chief foreign affairs correspondent.

From MarketWatch ● Jun. 22, 2026

The two valiant pilots of the 586th were sent gold watches through the Soviet minister of foreign affairs, said to be gifts from George VI, the king of England.

From "A Thousand Sisters" by Elizabeth Wein