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noun A2 Elementary Very common

education

ehj-uu-KAY-shn

Education (noun) means the process of teaching or learning, especially in schools. Example: “She believes every child deserves access to a good education.”

noun
1
The process of teaching or learning, especially in schools.
"She believes every child deserves access to a good education."
"He returned to education later in life to complete his degree."
2
The knowledge, skills, and understanding gained through learning.
"His education in mechanical engineering helped him land the job."

How to use education

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe process of learning, or the knowledge gained from it.

Common pairings
higher education a good education lack of education

Word forms

educations plural

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She believes every child deserves access to a good _____.

Etymology

From Latin educatio ("a rearing, bringing up"), from educare ("to educate").

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for education

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Frequently asked questions

What does “education” mean?

The word “education” means the process of teaching or learning, especially in schools. In plain terms, the process of learning, or the knowledge gained from it.

How do you pronounce “education”?

“Education” is pronounced ehj-uu-KAY-shn (/ˌɛd͡ʒ.əˈkeɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “education” in a sentence?

Here is “education” used in a sentence: “She believes every child deserves access to a good education.”

What part of speech is “education”?

“Education” is a noun.

Where does the word “education” come from?

The word “education” comes from Latin. From Latin educatio ("a rearing, bringing up"), from educare ("to educate").

Is “education” a common word?

“Education” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

How many meanings does “education” have?

“Education” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the process of teaching or learning, especially in schools.

What is the difference between education and learning?

Learning is the actual gaining of knowledge or skill, which can happen anywhere and at any age. Education is the organised process designed to bring that learning about, especially the structured teaching found in schools, colleges, and universities. You can learn without being taught, but education is deliberately arranged and guided.

What are the main types of education?

Educators usually name three kinds. Formal education is the structured system of schools, colleges, and degrees. Non-formal education covers organised courses outside that system, such as evening classes or workplace training. Informal education is the everyday learning we absorb from family, friends, and experience. By level, it runs from primary to higher education.

Why is education important?

Education gives people the knowledge and skills to think for themselves, earn a living, and take part in society. It widens opportunity, supports better health and decision-making, and passes knowledge and culture from one generation to the next. Economies and democracies alike depend on a well-educated population.

Can you get an education outside of school?

Yes. While the word points especially to schools, education also happens through home-schooling, online courses, apprenticeships, libraries, and self-study. Many people keep educating themselves throughout life, well beyond formal schooling. School provides structure and recognised qualifications, but it is not the only place real education can take place.

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