Meaning
定居 means to settle down in a place permanently, establishing one's home and residence there. It implies a long-term or permanent decision to live somewhere, rather than temporary stays or visits. The word combines 定 (to fix, decide) and 居 (to reside), literally meaning 'to fix one's residence.'
Usage
定居 is commonly used when discussing immigration, relocation decisions, or choosing where to make one's permanent home. It's a neutral, formal term often used in written Chinese, news reports, and official contexts. Native speakers use it when the permanence of the living arrangement is emphasized, distinguishing it from temporary living situations.
Examples
- 01他毕业后决定在上海定居。.After graduation, he decided to settle down in Shanghai.
- 02很多华人选择在美国定居。.Many Chinese people choose to settle in the United States.
Characters
Common collocations
- 在...定居...to settle in (a place)
- 定居国外to settle abroad
- 永久定居to settle permanently
Antonyms
Origin
The compound combines the classical meaning of 定 (to settle, fix) with 居 (to dwell, live), both ancient Chinese characters. This word has been used historically in literary Chinese to describe establishing one's home in a particular location.