C1noun2K

Migration

UK /["/maɪˈɡreɪʃn/"]/US /["/maɪˈɡreɪʃn/"]/

Definition

the movement every year of large numbers of birds or animals from one place to another

In simple words: Moving from one place to another, often for a long time.

Examples

  • the seasonal migration of blue whales
  • the migration routes of birds
  • migration from rural to urban areas
  • It was one of the largest **mass migrations** in US history.
  • **Net migration**— more people moving to the state than leaving—accounts for about two thirds of the population gain.
  • The decline of the rural economy has caused urban migration.
  • The rising level of poverty led to the migration of whole families to the capital and other big cities.
  • the great waves of migration that took Europeans to the New World

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts. Common in discussions about animals, people moving for better living conditions, or changes in climate. Less common in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'migrate' as 'my great journey' to remember moving from one place to another.

Collocations

  • seasonal
  • autumn
  • fall
  • wave
  • occur
  • take place
  • increase
  • path
  • pattern
  • route
  • migration from
  • migration to

Synonyms

  • movement
  • relocation
  • emigration
  • transmigration
  • travel

Antonyms

  • stagnation
  • settlement

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'immigration', which specifically refers to entering a new country.
  • Using 'migration' only for animals, forgetting it applies to people too.
  • Mispronouncing, especially stressing the wrong syllable.