C1adjectiveformalsocietynature
US/ˈeɪ.li.ən/
UK/ˈeɪ.li.ən/
strange and unfamiliar, or coming from another place or country
More often (noun): a creature from another planet, as shown in science fiction films
In context
The city felt alien to her after years abroad.
Alien species can damage local wildlife when they spread.
Such ideas are alien to our culture and values.
Words that go with alien
adjective + noun
- alien speciesAlien species threaten many island ecosystems.
- alien conceptSaving money was an alien concept to him.
- alien environmentAstronauts must work in an alien environment.
- alien cultureLiving in an alien culture can be stressful.
adjective + preposition
- alien toThe concept is alien to most young children.
adverb + adjective
- completely alienThe idea was completely alien to her way of thinking.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
alien fromCorrect: alien to