Reconciliations of Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011	Aug. 31, 2010
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 84,942	$ 78,140	$ 79,576
Additions for tax positions of prior years	48,986	2,979	4,931
Reductions for tax positions of prior years	(10,446)	(12,631)	(11,669)
Additions for tax positions related to current year	12,316	18,431	18,249
Additions for tax positions related to acquired entities	3,275	3,648
Cash settlements	(7,880)	(1,667)	(3,103)
Reductions from lapses in statutes of limitations	(2,521)	(2,840)	(4,184)
Reductions from settlements with taxing authorities	(9,680)	(5,349)	(4,450)
Foreign exchange rate adjustment	(2,331)	4,231	(1,210)
Ending balance	116,661	84,942	78,140
Unrecognized tax benefits that would affect the effective tax rate (if recognized)	$ 68,924	$ 68,859	$ 71,456