alþjóðlegt

Alþjóðlegt is an Icelandic adjective meaning international or global, used to describe relations, organizations, or phenomena that involve more than one nation or cross national borders. It is commonly applied in political, legal, economic, cultural, and academic contexts to indicate cross-border or worldwide relevance. Examples include alþjóðlegt samstarf (international cooperation), alþjóðlegt réttur (international law), and alþjóðlegt fyrirtæki (multinational company).

Etymology and form: The word is formed from the root alþjóð-, which conveys world-wide or international meaning, together with the adjective suffix -legt. The base noun alþjóð can denote the international community. The adjective declensions include alþjóðlegur (masculine), alþjóðleg (feminine), and alþjóðlegt (neuter), allowing agreement with the noun it modifies.

Usage and nuance: Alþjóðlegt generally emphasizes activities or affairs that cross national boundaries or involve multiple countries. It is distinct from local or national terms and is often paired with nouns such as samráð, samstarf, réttur, og menning to describe the international dimension of a topic. The term also occurs in political discourse, international organizations, and media coverage of global issues.

See also: alþjóðamál (international affairs), alþjóðlegt samfélag (international community), alþjóðlegt réttarkerfi (international legal system). The word forms part of routine Icelandic terminology for diplomacy, global business, and cross-border studies.