foreign currency

[/ˈfɒrən ˈkɜːrənsi/]
nounpl: foreign currencies
moeda estrangeira
1. Money issued by a country other than one's own; currency of another nation used in international trade and exchange
The company needs to convert its earnings into foreign currency to pay international suppliers.
A empresa precisa converter seus ganhos em moeda estrangeira para pagar fornecedores internacionais.
2. Currencies held as reserves by central banks or used for foreign exchange transactions
Brazil's central bank holds significant foreign currency reserves.
O banco central do Brasil mantém reservas significativas em moeda estrangeira.
3. Cash or deposits denominated in the currency of another country
Tourists exchange their foreign currency at the airport.
Os turistas trocam sua moeda estrangeira no aeroporto.
In Brazil, foreign currency management is particularly relevant due to historical economic fluctuations and the importance of the US dollar in international transactions. Many Brazilians hold US dollars as a hedge against inflation. The term is widely used in banking, tourism, and business contexts, and understanding exchange rates is a common concern for middle-class Brazilians engaged in international commerce or travel.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
foreign exchangehard currencyinternational currencyoverseas currency
Antonyms / Antônimos
domestic currencylocal currencynational currency

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
moeda estrangeira
Standard term used in banking and financial contexts
São Paulo
moeda estrangeira / câmbio
Câmbio is also commonly used in financial districts referring to foreign exchange
Rio de Janeiro
moeda estrangeira
Standard usage, particularly in tourism and banking sectors
Portugal
moeda estrangeira / divisas
Divisas is an alternative term commonly used in Portuguese banking terminology

Related Words

exchange rateforexcurrency conversionreservesmonetary policyinternational trade

Related Idioms & Phrases

earn foreign currency
hold foreign currency reserves
convert to foreign currency
foreign currency exchange
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