1.
various foreign countries; other countries; foreign nations
A collective term referring to multiple foreign countries, often used when comparing Japan with other nations or discussing international trends.
Composed of 諸 (various, many) + 外国 (foreign countries). The prefix 諸 adds the meaning of "various" or "several," making this a formal way to refer to multiple foreign nations collectively.
Common collocations
- 諸外国と比較する (to compare with other countries)
- 諸外国の制度 (systems of other countries)
- 諸外国に遅れを取る (to lag behind other countries)
- 諸外国から学ぶ (to learn from other countries)
Similar words
- 外国 — foreign country; singular or general, less formal
- 海外 — overseas; broader term that can include regions, not just countries
- 各国 — each country, every country; emphasizes individual countries rather than a collective group
Usage
諸外国 is a formal expression common in news, policy discussions, and academic writing. It is almost always used from a Japanese perspective, comparing Japan with other nations. It implies a serious, analytical tone.