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alien

Q: How is the word 'alien' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of alien are extraneous , extrinsic , and foreign . While all these words mean "external to a thing, its essential nature, or its original character," alien is stronger than foreign in suggesting opposition, repugnance, or irreconcilability. // a practice totally alien to her nature

Q: In what contexts can 'extraneous' take the place of 'alien'?

The synonyms extraneous and alien are sometimes interchangeable, but extraneous applies to what is on or comes from the outside and may or may not be capable of becoming an essential part. // arguments extraneous to the issue

Q: When is it sensible to use 'extrinsic' instead of 'alien'?

While in some cases nearly identical to alien , extrinsic applies to what is distinctly outside the thing in question or is not contained in or derived from its essential nature. // sentimental value that is extrinsic to the house's market value

Q: When could 'foreign' be used to replace 'alien'?

The words foreign and alien are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, foreign applies to what is so different as to be rejected or repelled or to be incapable of becoming assimilated. // techniques foreign to French cuisine

adjective

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Synonyms & Antonyms of alien

(Entry 1 of 3)

1 being, relating to, or characteristic of a country other than one's own

they were careful to learn of any alien business customs before trying to expand overseas

Synonyms for alien

foreign,
nonnative

Words Related to alien

Near Antonyms for alien

endemic,
local

Antonyms for alien

domestic,
native

2 not being a vital part of or belonging to something

it's completely alien to her nature to wish evil of anyone

Synonyms for alien

Words Related to alien

exterior,
outside

Near Antonyms for alien

Antonyms for alien

alien

verb

Synonyms & Antonyms of alien (Entry 2 of 3)

1 to cause to change from friendly or loving to unfriendly or uncaring

such angry outbursts will rapidly alien any friends you might possibly have left

Synonyms for alien

Words Related to alien

Near Antonyms for alien

endear,
ingratiate

Antonyms for alien

reconcile

2 to give over the legal possession or ownership of

the couple plans to alien the adjoining house lot to their eldest son

Synonyms for alien

Words Related to alien

lease,
lend,
let
[chiefly British],
loan,
rent

Phrases Synonymous with alien

dispose of

Near Antonyms for alien

expropriate

alien

noun

Synonyms & Antonyms of alien (Entry 3 of 3)

as in nonresident

Synonyms & Near Synonyms for alien

nonresident

outcast,
pariah

Antonyms & Near Antonyms for alien

native

Frequently Asked Questions About alien

How is the word alien different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of alien are extraneous, extrinsic, and foreign. While all these words mean "external to a thing, its essential nature, or its original character," alien is stronger than foreign in suggesting opposition, repugnance, or irreconcilability.

a practice totally alien to her nature

In what contexts can extraneous take the place of alien?

The synonyms extraneous and alien are sometimes interchangeable, but extraneous applies to what is on or comes from the outside and may or may not be capable of becoming an essential part.

arguments extraneous to the issue

When is it sensible to use extrinsic instead of alien?

While in some cases nearly identical to alien, extrinsic applies to what is distinctly outside the thing in question or is not contained in or derived from its essential nature.

sentimental value that is extrinsic to the house's market value

When could foreign be used to replace alien?

The words foreign and alien are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, foreign applies to what is so different as to be rejected or repelled or to be incapable of becoming assimilated.

techniques foreign to French cuisine

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