immigrant - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
immigrant Word Meanings
- a person who comes to live permanently in a foreign country
- someone who has moved from one country to another
- an individual who immigrates to gain a better life
immigrant Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
immigrant Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɪmɪɡrənt/
US
/ˈɪmɪɡrənt/
immigrant Word Etymology
im- = not + migrant = one who moves. Originated from Latin, through Old French into English. Visualize a suitcase filled with dreams, leaving behind old roots to find new ones.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lift my bag and pause to breathe, then push through the crowd. I set a new path in my mind and keep my pace steady as the doors open to a wider world. Each small move feels like testing balance, a shift that asks me to adjust and choose where to place my steps. The more I go, the clearer the feeling becomes: I am someone who moves across borders, building a life, not just visiting.
Real Context
An immigrant is a person who moves to another country with the intention of living there permanently, often seeking better work, safety, or opportunities for their family. The term highlights cross-border movement and the motivations behind it, applying to those who arrive through legal channels, study and settle, or relocate for work abroad. Immigrants may face language barriers, cultural adjustment, and visa procedures, yet they frequently contribute to their new communities through labor, culture, and entrepreneurship. The concept focuses on process and choice rather than formal status, and it is distinct in everyday usage from refugees or tourists.
Usage Reminders
- Immigrant refers to a person who plans to live in a new country permanently.
- Don’t confuse immigrant with refugee or tourist in casual speech.
- Some contexts emphasize legal status and route (visa, residency).
- Be mindful of gender and plural forms when describing groups (immigrants).
- Use clear verbs: move, settle, immigrate; avoid slang.
Common Misconceptions
- Immigrant means someone who arrived yesterday; it can be a temporary status.
- Immigrant and refugee are the same thing.
- All immigrants become citizens immediately.
- Immigrants are only from certain countries or regions.
- Immigrant refers only to people who speak a different language.
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate citizenship, legality, and identity more clearly; learners may assume immigrant equals refugee or citizen by default.
Learning Tips
- Note the verb collocations: immigrate, move, settle, integrate.
- Practice distinguishing immigrant from refugee and tourist in context.
- Learn common phrases with immigrant life: work permit, residency, naturalization.
- Use plural forms correctly: immigrants, immigrant communities.
- Read real-life stories to see everyday usage.
- Listen for pronunciation: immigrant with stress on first syllable.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'immigrant'?
A.Temporary resident
B.Native inhabitant
C.Foreign visitor
D.Permanent citizen
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'immigrant' used correctly?
A.The immigrant to the country was born there.
B.The immigrant was unfamiliar with the local customs.
C.The immigrant was a citizen of the country.
D.The immigrant returned to their homeland.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'immigrant'?
A.Tourist
B.Local
C.Migrant
D.Citizen
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'immigrant'?
A.Resident
B.Visitor
C.Expat
D.Alien
Step 5: Mastery
In what context would you likely hear the word 'immigrant' being used?
A.At a citizenship ceremony
B.At a local school event
C.At a sports competition
D.At a charity fundraiser
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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