textbook

5 synonyms for textbook, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Noun — A book used for formal study of a particular subject, especially in schools or universities.

Synonyms

Everyday swaps

Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.

manual text

Rare, literary or technical

Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.

coursebook schoolbook casebook

Synonyms by Meaning

1. noun

A book used for formal study of a particular subject, especially in schools or universities.

“The chemistry textbook cost almost as much as the course itself.”

coursebook manual text schoolbook

2. adj

Done in a perfect, exemplary way that could be used as a model case.

“Well done everyone, the tree fell exactly where we planned. That was textbook.”

casebook

How to use textbook

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

textbook example textbook case chemistry textbook

Etymology

A straightforward compound of "text" and "book".

Full origin of textbook →

Frequently asked questions

What does “textbook” mean?

The word “textbook” means a book used for formal study of a particular subject, especially in schools or universities. In plain terms, a book used to study a subject, or (as an adjective) a perfect, by-the-book example of something.

How do you pronounce “textbook”?

“Textbook” is pronounced TEHKST-buuk (/ˈtɛkst.bʊk/ in IPA).

How do you use “textbook” in a sentence?

Here is “textbook” used in a sentence: “The chemistry textbook cost almost as much as the course itself.”

What part of speech is “textbook”?

Depending on how it is used, “textbook” can be a noun and an adjective.

Is “textbook” a common word?

“Textbook” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

How many meanings does “textbook” have?

“Textbook” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a book used for formal study of a particular subject, especially in schools or universities.

What is the difference between a textbook and a workbook?

A textbook is a book used for formal study of a subject, typically containing explanations and information, while a workbook usually contains exercises and blank spaces for students to complete as practice. Textbooks are often used alongside workbooks in the same course.

What does it mean to call something "textbook"?

When used as an adjective, textbook describes something done in a perfect, exemplary way that could serve as a model case, such as a "textbook landing" or a "textbook example" of a strategy. This usage draws on the idea of matching the ideal description found in a textbook.

Is "textbook" always a compliment when used as an adjective?

Textbook is usually a compliment, praising something as flawless or perfectly executed, but it can occasionally sound slightly clinical or unoriginal, as if something followed the rules too exactly rather than showing creativity. Context and tone determine which reading applies.

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Nearby words

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