foreign affairs
Americanplural noun
plural noun
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matters abroad that involve the homeland, such as relations with another country
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matters that do not involve the homeland
Etymology
Origin of foreign affairs
First recorded in 1605–15
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Americans are in a cynical mood on foreign affairs, and many wonder why the U.S. should make sacrifices for an island some 6,000 miles away from Seattle.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026
At the same time, he possessed a sophisticated worldview and a deep grasp of foreign affairs.
From Salon • May 14, 2026
Cat Little, the most senior civil servant at the Cabinet Office, has been giving evidence to the Commons foreign affairs committee about the vetting of Lord Mandelson.
From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026
Under both civilian and military governments, foreign affairs has traditionally been considered a domain of interest for Pakistan's military.
From Barron's • Apr. 12, 2026
Critics said he had no right to speak on foreign affairs.
From "Boots on the Ground: America's War in Vietnam" by Elizabeth Partridge
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.