Emigrate vs Immigrate: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
Emigrate means to move out of a country, while immigrate means to move into another country.
Memory Tip: Emigrate = Exit, Immigrate = In
Emigrate starts with /ɛ/, Immigrate starts with /ɪ/
emigrate /ˈɛmɪˌɡreɪt/
verbTo leave your own country to live permanently in another country.
Example:
Although she has been living in Canada for years, Maria would emigrate to Australia if she had the opportunity, as she prefers the climate there.
Common patterns:
emigrate abroad
emigrate permanently
emigrate for work
immigrate
Example:
If more people immigrated to the country, the cultural diversity would significantly increase, offering new perspectives to the local community.
Common patterns:
immigrate to
decide to immigrate
immigrate legally
Common Mistakes
She decided to immigrate from Germany to Canada last year.
She decided to emigrate from Germany to Canada last year.
She is leaving Germany, so 'emigrate' is correct.
After living in Italy, he plans to emigrate to the United States next month.
After living in Italy, he plans to immigrate to the United States next month.
He is moving into the United States, so 'immigrate' is correct.
Quick Practice
0/1 correct1. Although she has been living in Canada for years, Maria would ____ to Australia if she had the opportunity, as she prefers the climate there.
Other Confusing Words
Never confuse emigrate / immigrate again
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