What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
immigrant
Example
My grandparents were immigrants from Italy. [immigrants: noun]
Example
She immigrated to Canada last year and is now working as a nurse. [immigrated: verb]
migrant
Example
The farm employs many migrant workers during the harvest season. [migrant: noun]
Example
He migrated from the countryside to the city in search of better job opportunities. [migrated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Immigrant is more commonly used than migrant in everyday language, especially in the context of discussing immigration policies and debates. However, migrant is more commonly used in academic and research contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between immigrant and migrant?
Immigrant is generally considered more formal than migrant, which may be used in more casual or colloquial contexts.