Here's a breakdown:
* Adopted: This implies a choice and a commitment to becoming part of a new nation.
* Country: This refers to a specific nation with its own government, laws, culture, and citizens.
Therefore, an "adopted country" is the place a person has chosen to make their permanent home, often through immigration or naturalization. They may have citizenship or residency in this country, embracing its values and contributing to its society.
Examples:
* A person born in Mexico who moves to the United States and becomes a citizen is adopting the United States as their country.
* An individual born in China who immigrates to Canada and lives there for decades has adopted Canada as their country.
It's important to note that "adopted country" is not always used in a purely legal sense. It can also be used to describe a country a person feels strongly connected to, even if they haven't officially naturalized.