How to Use "Immigrate" and "Emigrate" Correctly

The terms “emigrate” and “immigrate” have somewhat similar meanings, in that both deal with leaving and entering countries. But these terms cannot be used interchangeably. Understanding their meanings and learning how to use “emigrate” and “immigrate” stems from comprehending the movement involved.

Instructions

1. Understand that both terms deal with leaving and going into countries.

2. Use “emigrate” when you are discussing someone leaving one county to live in another. This term deals mostly with the departure element.

3. Study this correct use of “emigrate”: She emigrated from Poland after the war.

4. Use “immigrate” when discussing someone entering a different country and living there. The entering element is the key to using this term correctly. This is also where the term “immigrant” comes from, because it refers to someone from another country living in a new country.

5. Study this proper use of “immigrate”: Many people immigrate to the United States each year.