What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
returnee
Example
The returnee was happy to be back in his hometown after living abroad for five years. [returnee: noun]
Example
She is a returnee from Japan and is now working at a local company. [returnee: adjective]
repatriate
Example
The embassy helped to repatriate the citizens who were stranded overseas due to the pandemic. [repatriate: verb]
Example
The government provided financial assistance for the repatriation of the refugees. [repatriation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Returnee is more common than repatriate in everyday language. Returnee is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while repatriate is more specific and often used in legal or official contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between returnee and repatriate?
Repatriate is a more formal word than returnee. It is often used in official documents, legal proceedings, or news reports. Returnee is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.