# go native

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/go-native
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To adopt the lifestyle or outlook of local inhabitants, especially when dwelling in a colonial region.

## Examples

- He moved to the island and started to go native.
- After living in the remote village for five years, he began to go native and adopted all the local customs.
- The diplomat was warned that if he stayed too long, he might go native and lose his objective perspective on the region.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.