expatriate
What does "expatriate" mean?
An expatriate is a person who lives outside their native country, typically for work or lifestyle reasons. The term carries a sense of someone who maintains a connection to their home culture while integrating into a new environment, often implying a temporary or semi-permanent stay rather than a permanent change in citizenship. It is a more formal term than "expat," which is widely used in casual conversation. While it can apply to anyone living abroad, it is frequently used to describe professionals sent by multinational corporations to work in foreign offices, or individuals seeking a different quality of life in a new country.
"expatriate" in conversation
Discussing career moves
I’ve been offered a position in the Tokyo office.
I’ve been offered a position in the Tokyo office.
That sounds like a huge step! Are you ready to live as an expatriate for a few years?
That sounds like a huge step! Are you ready to live as an expatriate for a few years?
Used here to describe a professional relocation.
Meeting at a cafe
Do you ever feel homesick?
Do you ever feel homesick?
Sometimes, but the expatriate community here is so welcoming that it makes the transition much easier.
Sometimes, but the expatriate community here is so welcoming that it makes the transition much easier.
Refers to the social network built by people living abroad.
"expatriate" in a sentence
Many expatriates enjoy the local cuisine.
Many expatriates enjoy the local cuisine.
The company provides a housing allowance for its expatriate employees.
The company provides a housing allowance for its expatriate employees.
She spent a decade as an expatriate, navigating the challenges of living in several different cultures.
She spent a decade as an expatriate, navigating the challenges of living in several different cultures.
