immigrate
IM-ih-grayt
/ˈɪmɪɡreɪt/
To come into a foreign country to live there permanently.
Focuses on the destination country and the act of arriving.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'immigrare', combining 'in-' (into) and 'migrare' (to move). It has been used since the 17th century to describe the act of entering a new country to settle.
Word relationships
- migrate: A general term for moving, often temporarily or seasonally, whereas immigrate implies permanence.
- emigrate: To leave one's own country to settle in another.
Commonly confused with
- emigrate: Immigrate is 'moving in,' while emigrate is 'moving out.'
Word family
- immigration (noun): The process of coming to live permanently in a foreign country.
- immigrant (noun): A person who comes to live permanently in a foreign country.
Collocations
- immigrate to
- legally immigrate
- desire to immigrate
Example sentences
- "Many people choose to immigrate to the United States in search of better economic opportunities and political stability." A discussion on historical population shifts.
- "The new laws make it easier for skilled workers to immigrate and contribute to the local economy." A news report on policy changes.
Memory hook
Think of the 'I' in 'Immigrate' standing for 'In'—you are moving INto a country. I for In, E for Exit.
When not to use
Do not use when talking about leaving a country; use 'emigrate' instead.
Fun facts
- The word 'immigrate' was coined specifically to distinguish those arriving from those departing.
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