What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
immigration
Example
My grandparents came to the United States through immigration. [immigration: noun]
Example
She is currently going through the immigration process to become a citizen. [immigration: noun]
migration
Example
The birds migrate south for the winter. [migrate: verb]
Example
Many people in search of better job opportunities migrate to big cities. [migrate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Migration is a more commonly used term than immigration in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and can refer to both domestic and international movements. However, immigration is more commonly used in legal and political contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between immigration and migration?
Immigration is generally considered a more formal term than migration, as it is often used in legal and political contexts. Migration is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.