Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
foreign vessel
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "foreign vessel" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to maritime law, shipping, or discussions about international waters and trade. Example: "The port authorities must inspect any foreign vessel entering the harbor to ensure compliance with safety regulations."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Academia
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
17 human-written examples
Foreign vessel means a vessel of foreign registry or operated under the authority of a country except the United States.
Academia
Mr. Klebanov repeated that Russia believes that a collision with a foreign vessel caused the sinking, rejecting American reports that a torpedo exploded inside the sub.
News & Media
A Nato official said the Swedes would not be dedicating so many assets to the search unless they were confident there was a foreign vessel in its waters.
News & Media
Russian investigators have three theories as to why the Kursk went down: an explosion in the submarine's torpedo room, a collision with a World War II mine or a collision with a foreign vessel.
News & Media
Because of the apparent loss of life, the sinking of a ship and the involvement of a foreign vessel, as well as the possibility of litigation, the inquiry is likely to be a detailed and formal one, with parties represented by lawyers, a senior military official said.
News & Media
McFaddon, 7 Cranch 116, 3 L.Ed. 287 (1812), when a United States Attorney, on the initiative of the Executive Branch, entered an appearance in a case involving the immunity of a foreign vessel, and was further defined in Ex parte Muir, 254 U.S. 522, 533, 41 S.Ct.
Academia
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
43 human-written examples
Finland also charges foreign vessels higher harbour fees.
News & Media
By contrast, Australia's existing maritime regime does not prohibit foreign vessels.
News & Media
Foreign vessels had to obtain permission before fishing within those areas.
Academia
"Heavily armed foreign vessels come close inshore and compete with small scale, artisan fishermen.
News & Media
Some fishing by foreign vessels within the 200-mile limit still goes on.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When writing about maritime law or international relations, use "foreign vessel" to clearly denote a ship registered or operated under the authority of a country other than the one being discussed. This term is particularly useful in legal and official contexts.
Common error
Avoid using informal terms like "that boat from overseas" in formal documents or reports. Stick to the precise and legally recognized term "foreign vessel" to maintain clarity and professionalism.
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "foreign vessel" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is commonly used in maritime and legal contexts. The purpose is to specifically identify ships registered or operated under the authority of a country other than the one being referenced.
Frequent in
News & Media
30%
Academia
25%
Science
25%
Less common in
Formal & Business
10%
Encyclopedias
5%
Reference
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "foreign vessel" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe ships registered or operated under the authority of a country other than the one being referenced. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly found in legal, maritime, and trade contexts. While its frequency is uncommon, "foreign vessel" is a precise term that adds clarity and specificity, making it particularly useful in professional and academic settings. Alternatives like "international ship" or "overseas vessel" may be suitable in less formal situations, but it's crucial to use "foreign vessel" where accuracy and legal precision are required.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
ship of foreign registry
Specifies the vessel's registration in a foreign country.
vessel of foreign origin
Highlights the origin of the vessel as being from another country.
international ship
Focuses on the vessel's operation across international boundaries rather than its origin.
overseas vessel
Highlights the vessel's origin from a place across the sea.
ship from abroad
Simply states that the ship originates from a foreign location.
non-domestic ship
Emphasizes the vessel's lack of connection to the home country.
non-national vessel
Indicates the vessel does not belong to the nation in question.
alien ship
Uses a more formal term to indicate the vessel's foreign origin.
vessel of another nation
Highlights the national affiliation of the vessel.
imported vessel
Focuses on the act of bringing the vessel into a country.
FAQs
How is "foreign vessel" typically used in maritime law?
In maritime law, "foreign vessel" refers to any ship or boat registered in or operated under the authority of a country other than the one whose laws are being applied or discussed. It often comes up in discussions about international waters, trade agreements, and jurisdictional issues.
What's a more formal alternative to "foreign vessel"?
A more formal alternative could be "vessel of foreign registry", which is often used in legal and official documents to specifically denote a ship registered in another country.
How does the term "foreign vessel" relate to international trade?
In international trade, "foreign vessel" often refers to ships used for importing and exporting goods between countries. Regulations and tariffs may differ depending on whether a vessel is considered a "foreign vessel" or a domestic one.
What should I consider when using "foreign vessel" in my writing?
Ensure that the context requires a formal or legalistic tone, as "foreign vessel" is more specific than a general term like "international ship". Be clear about which country's perspective you are writing from to avoid ambiguity about what constitutes a "foreign vessel".
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested