brain drain
The loss of highly skilled or educated people from a country/region/organization, usually because they move elsewhere for better opportunities.
Popularized in the mid-20th century, especially in Britain, to describe scientists and professionals leaving for countries offering better pay, research funding, or prospects (notably post–WWII moves to the U.S.). The metaphor frames talent as a valuable resource “draining” away.
Somewhat formal and often used in economics, policy, or academia. Usually implies a negative impact from talent leaving for better pay or opportunities.
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The country is facing a serious brain drain as young engineers move abroad for better salaries.
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To stop the brain drain, the government introduced grants for researchers who stay and work locally.
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The university worries about brain drain when its best professors are recruited by overseas institutions.
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After the economic crisis, the region experienced a brain drain that hurt its tech industry for years.
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Some companies combat brain drain by offering flexible work and clear paths for promotion.
A fixed noun phrase: “a/the brain drain.” Often used with “of/from/to” (e.g., “brain drain from X to Y”), or as a modifier (“brain-drain problem,” “brain-drain tax,” “brain-drain effect”).
- human capital flight
- talent exodus
- skill drain
- brain gain
- reverse brain drain
- talent retention