C1nounformal5K

Asylum

UK /["/əˈsaɪləm/"]/US /["/əˈsaɪləm/"]/

Definition

protection that a government gives to people who have left their own country, usually because they were in danger for political reasons

In simple words: A safe place where people can live when they are in danger.

Examples

  • **to seek/apply for/be granted asylum**
  • There was a nationwide debate on whether the asylum laws should be changed.
  • She fled the country, and is now seeking asylum in Sweden.
  • They applied for asylum after being tortured in their own country.
  • She was granted political asylum by Canada in 2013.
  • Over 400 people have been refused asylum.
  • Those fleeing from the war have the right to asylum.

Usage notes

Typically used in legal contexts related to refugees or protection from persecution. Avoid in casual conversations. It's important to use it correctly in discussions about human rights.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'a-sigh-lum' — imagine someone sighing with relief in a safe building.

Collocations

  • political
  • temporary
  • apply for
  • claim
  • request
  • seeker
  • application
  • case
  • an application for asylum
  • the right of asylum
  • the right to asylum
  • insane
  • lunatic
  • mental
  • in an/​the asylum

Synonyms

  • refuge
  • sanctuary
  • shelter
  • protection

Antonyms

  • danger
  • persecution
  • threat

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'sanctuary' — not all safe places offer legal protection.
  • Using 'asylum' as a verb — it's only a noun.
  • Mispronouncing as 'a-sigh-lum' instead of 'a-sigh-lum'.