Alien: meaning, definitions and examples

This term can be used generally to describe any being from another planet or space. It is also used in legal or social contexts to refer to foreigners or outsiders.

• The movie features a friendly alien who crash-lands on Earth.
• She felt like an alien in a foreign country, struggling with the language and customs.

This is a formal term used mainly in scientific discussions, literature, or serious conversations about life beyond Earth.

• Scientists are constantly searching for extraterrestrial life.
• The debate about the existence of extraterrestrial beings continues.

ET is a colloquial, friendly abbreviation for 'extraterrestrial,' popularized by the movie 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial'. Typically used in informal contexts or when referring to friendly extraterrestrial beings.

• The kids claimed to have seen an ET in the backyard.
• Do you remember watching ET as a child?

Use this term specifically to refer to beings from Mars. It's often used in science fiction or discussions about the planet Mars.

• The novel is about a Martian invasion on Earth.
• The rover is designed to search for signs of Martian life.

Also used to describe someone or something belonging to a foreign country or nation; it can have a negative or exclusionary connotation.

• He felt like an alien in his own company after the new management took over
• Immigration laws often refer to non-citizens as aliens

Appropriate for anything related to another country, such as travel, policy, or languages.

• She developed a taste for foreign cuisine after traveling through Europe
• The diplomat specialized in foreign affairs

Used to describe something odd, unusual, or difficult to understand, often creating a sense of curiosity or discomfort.

• He had a strange feeling that someone was watching him
• The book has a really strange ending

Refers to something not known, recognized, or experienced before. It may involve a sense of discomfort or uncertainty.

• She felt nervous walking through the unfamiliar streets
• The software interface was unfamiliar to the new employees