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Asylum - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Asylum refers to protection or shelter granted by a country to someone fleeing persecution or danger in their homeland. It can also mean a safe place or refuge for those in need.

asylum

/əˈsaɪləm/ /əˈsaɪləm/

Definition:

Protection granted by a nation to someone fleeing persecution or danger in their home country.

Synonyms:

sanctuary, refuge, shelter, haven

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

danger, persecution

Common Collocations:

seek asylum, grant asylum, political asylum, asylum seeker

Derivatives:

asylee, asylums

Usage Tips:

Use "asylum" to refer to legal protection for refugees; avoid using it casually for general shelter.

Common Phrases:

political asylum, seek asylum, insane asylum (dated)

Etymology:

From Greek "asylon," meaning "inviolable," via Latin "asylum," referring to a place of refuge.

Examples:

  • 1. She sought asylum after fleeing her war-torn country.
  • 2. The government granted him asylum due to political persecution.
  • 3. Many refugees hope to find asylum in safer nations.
  • 4. The old building once served as an insane asylum (historical context).

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