internal affairs
plural noun
1
a
: the activities involved in managing an organized entity (such as a company or club)
b
: matters that directly affect the lives of citizens within a country or state : domestic affairs
In political debates, the principle resounds, "Our country should not be concerned with or meddle in the internal affairs of other countries."—D. E. Koshland, Jr.
compare foreign affairs
2
US
: a department within a law enforcement agency or organization that addresses complaints about the agency or organization itself
an internal affairs officer/investigator
Cite this Entry
“Internal affairs.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/internal%20affairs. Accessed 22 Oct. 2026.
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