Foreigner

Definition

Foreigner refers to a person who comes from a country other than one's own, especially one who is not a naturalized citizen or permanent resident of the country in question.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɔrənər/
• Respelling: FOR-uh-ner (with "FOR" as in "fort," "uh" as in "sofa," and "ner" as in "her")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɒrɪnə/
• Respelling: FOR-ih-nuh (with "FOR" as in "fort," "ih" as in "sit," and "nuh" as in "sofa")

In both dialects, "foreigner" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "FOR." The pronunciation differs slightly, focusing on the clear articulation of "FOR-uh-ner" in American English and "FOR-ih-nuh" in British English.

Etymology

The word "foreigner" originates from the Middle English "forenier," which was derived from the Old French "forain," meaning "stranger" or "outsider." The Old French term itself comes from the Latin "foris," meaning "outside" or "abroad." The use of the word "foreigner" in English dates back to the 15th century, primarily referring to someone from another country or a non-native.

Derivatives

• Foreign (adjective)
• Foreignness (noun)
• Foreignly (adverb, rare)
• Foreignerism (noun, rare)
• Foreignization (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Alien
• Non-native
• Outsider

Antonyms

• Native
• Local
• Citizen

Usage

The term "foreigner" is widely used to describe individuals who are not natives of the country or region in which they are currently residing. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts and is often employed in discussions related to immigration, travel, and international relations. While generally neutral, the term can carry different connotations depending on the context, ranging from simple identification of someone from another country to sometimes carrying an implication of otherness or unfamiliarity.

Related Terms

• Immigrant
• Expatriate
• Non-resident
• Tourist

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A Person Who Is Not Native to the Place They Are In: Refers to someone who originates from a different country than the one they are currently in.
  • Example: The foreigner struggled with the local language but quickly adapted to the customs.

• A Non-Citizen: Often used to describe someone who does not hold citizenship in the country they are residing in, typically a visitor, worker, or immigrant.
  • Example: Foreigners must apply for a visa before entering the country.

• Someone Considered Different or Unfamiliar: The term can also refer to anyone who is perceived as an outsider, whether culturally, socially, or geographically.
  • Example: In the small village, she felt like a foreigner despite having lived there for years.