What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
emigrate
Example
My grandparents emigrated from Italy to the United States in the early 1900s. [emigrated: past tense]
Example
She is planning to emigrate to Canada next year. [emigrate: verb]
migrate
Example
The birds migrate south for the winter. [migrate: verb]
Example
Many people in search of work migrate to big cities. [migrate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Migrate is more commonly used than emigrate in everyday language. Migrate is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while emigrate is more specific and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between emigrate and migrate?
Emigrate is typically associated with a formal tone due to its legal implications and serious nature. Migrate is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.