How can I explain the distinction between "in the world" and "around the world?"?

Question

I'm trying to explain to non-native English speakers the distinction between "in the world" and "around the world."  For example:

There are many wars in the world.
There are many wars around the world.
English is the most widely used language in the world.
**English is the most widely used langauge around the world.

The last sentence is improperly formed.  However, I can't find any reference guide that explains the difference between these two phrases.  Any suggestions?

dartez_mz · Accepted Answer

If you is native from portuguese...

"In the world" mean "No mundo"
"Around the world" mean "Pelo mundo" or "Ao redor do mundo" 

 I hope that helps

Mike · Answer

Some people would say the two expressions mean exactly the same thing.

To me, 'in the world' means 'encompassing all places that belong to planet Earth.'  Or at least, 'within the confines of planet Earth'.

While 'around the world' indicates a direction of motion, as in 'a trip around the world'.

In your given examples, they could be used interchangably.

Anonymous · Answer

in the world means happening within the world
around the world means happening just outside the world

wars in the world would mean happening inside the world
and  aound the world would mean happening just outside the world excluding the world in context itself

btdt · Answer

I use "in the world" only for comparisons ("tallest man in the world") like your second case, or to mean "not shut-in" ("Out in the world").

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How can I explain the distinction between "in the world" and "around the world?"?

4 Answers