exile Definition
- 1the state of being barred from one's native country, typically for political or punitive reasons
- 2a person who lives away from their native country, either by choice or compulsion
Using exile: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "exile" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
After the revolution, many people were forced into exile.
Example
The writer lived in exile for many years before returning to his homeland.
Example
He was sentenced to ten years of exile for his political activities.
Example
The king was in exile for several years before being restored to the throne.
exile Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for exile
Antonyms for exile
Idioms Using exile
Example
The former dictator is living in exile in a foreign country.
Example
After the coup, he chose to exile himself to avoid persecution.
a reference to the historical practice of sending political prisoners to labor camps in Siberia, used to describe a harsh or oppressive punishment
Example
After the failed rebellion, the leaders were exiled to Siberia.
Phrases with exile
self-imposed exile
a voluntary absence from one's native country, often for political or personal reasons
Example
After the scandal, he went into self-imposed exile in Europe.
a phrase used to describe a state of isolation or detachment from society, popularized by the Rolling Stones album of the same name
Example
After the breakup, he felt like he was living in exile on Main Street.
a metaphorical reference to the biblical story of Adam and Eve, where they were exiled from the Garden of Eden for disobeying God
Example
After the divorce, he felt like he had been exiled from paradise.
Origins of exile
from Latin 'exilium', meaning 'banishment'
Summary: exile in Brief
The term 'exile' [ˈɛksʌɪl] refers to the state of being barred from one's native country, often for political or punitive reasons, or a person who lives away from their native country. It can be voluntary or involuntary, as in 'After the revolution, many people were forced into exile.' The phrase 'in exile' denotes living away from one's country, while 'exile oneself' implies a voluntary departure. 'Exile on Main Street' is a phrase used to describe a state of isolation or detachment from society.
