When we think of going “abroad,” it usually implies leaving one’s home country and traveling to another. However, expressing this concept in different languages can vary greatly in terms of formality and regional variations. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “abroad” in various languages, providing tips, examples, and cultural insights along the way. So, let’s embark on this linguistic journey together!
Table of Contents
1. English – Abroad
In English, we use the word “abroad” to refer to going overseas or to another country. It is a versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal settings. Here are some examples:
Formal:
- “I will be studying abroad next semester.”
- “He moved abroad to pursue his career.”
Informal:
- “She’s planning to travel abroad this summer.”
- “They’ve been living abroad for a year now.”
2. Spanish – En el extranjero
In Spanish, the phrase “en el extranjero” is commonly used to say “abroad.” The term can be both formal and informal, depending on the context. Let’s take a look:
Formal:
- “Voy a estudiar en el extranjero el próximo semestre.”
- “Él trabaja en el extranjero como diplomático.”
Informal:
- “Ella quiere viajar en el extranjero este verano.”
- “Llevan viviendo en el extranjero un año.”
3. French – À l’étranger
In French, the phrase “à l’étranger” is used to express the concept of going “abroad.” Like in other languages, the formality of the expression can vary. Here are some examples:
Formal:
- “Je vais étudier à l’étranger l’année prochaine.”
- “Il travaille à l’étranger pour une entreprise internationale.”
Informal:
- “Elle prévoit de partir à l’étranger cet été.”
- “Ils vivent à l’étranger depuis un an maintenant.”
4. German – Im Ausland
In the German language, “im Ausland” is the common way to say “abroad.” It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Take a look at the following examples:
Formal:
- “Ich werde im Ausland studieren.”
- “Er arbeitet im Ausland für ein multinationales Unternehmen.”
Informal:
- “Sie plant, diesen Sommer ins Ausland zu reisen.”
- “Sie leben seit einem Jahr im Ausland.”
5. Italian – All’estero
In Italian, the phrase “all’estero” is used to convey the idea of going “abroad.” It is widely used in both formal and informal situations. Here are a few examples:
Formal:
- “Sto per studiare all’estero il prossimo semestre.”
- “Lavora all’estero per un’importante società multinazionale.”
Informal:
- “Lei sta pianificando di viaggiare all’estero quest’estate.”
- “Vivono all’estero da un anno.”
6. Japanese – 海外へ (Kaigai e)
In Japanese, saying “abroad” can be done by using the phrase “海外へ” (kaigai e), which literally means “to overseas.” While Japanese is traditionally a relatively formal language, this phrase can still be used in informal contexts. Here are some examples:
Formal/Informal:
- “来年、海外へ留学する予定です” (Rainen, kaigai e ryūgaku suru yotei desu) – “I plan to study abroad next year.”
- “彼は旅行で海外へ行った” (Kare wa ryokō de kaigai e itta) – “He went abroad on a trip.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the specific expressions for saying “abroad” might vary across different languages, the idea of traveling to another country is universal. Whether you’re looking for a formal or informal way to express this, we hope this guide has provided you with helpful phrases, examples, and cultural insights. So, whatever your language of choice may be, now you’re equipped to confidently talk about going “abroad” with others!
