Academy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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academy

[ษ™หˆkadษ™mi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

education

An academy is a place of study or training in a particular field, usually higher education.

Synonyms

college, institute, school.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
academy

Used for specialized institutions focusing on particular skills, arts, or sciences. Sometimes implies prestige or exclusivity.

  • She enrolled in a music academy to improve her violin skills.
  • The military academy has a long tradition of discipline and excellence.
school

A broad term that can describe institutions at various educational levels, from elementary to university. It is also used for specific training in certain fields.

  • He is in elementary school.
  • She attends a school of performing arts.
institute

Describes an organization devoted to a specific purpose, such as research or education on specific subjects. It can be part of a larger university or an independent entity.

  • She is doing research at a medical institute.
  • The institute offers a variety of vocational courses.
college

Refers to institutions providing higher education and granting degrees, typically after high school. Often used in the context of undergraduate education but can imply informality compared to a university.

  • He decided to attend college in his hometown.
  • College life can be both challenging and rewarding.

Examples of usage

  • The academy offers a wide range of courses in various disciplines.
  • She decided to enroll in the acting academy to pursue her dream.
Context #2 | Noun

organization

An academy can also refer to an association or society of learned people working together to advance knowledge in a particular field.

Synonyms

association, institution, society.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
academy

An academy is often used to refer to a place of higher education or specialized training in a particular field. It typically implies a certain level of prestige or excellence.

  • She graduated from the National Academy of Sciences.
  • The Military Academy is known for its rigorous training.
society

A society is typically used to describe an organized group of individuals with shared interests, often focused on cultural, scientific, or charitable activities.

  • He joined the Historical Society to learn more about the townโ€™s past.
  • The society for the promotion of science holds annual conferences.
association

An association refers to a group of people coming together for a common purpose or interest, such as a professional group or community organization.

  • He is a member of the Teachers' Association.
  • The neighborhood association meets once a month to discuss local issues.
institution

An institution is a broad term used for established organizations dedicated to education, public service, or research. It can also imply long-standing and significant influence.

  • Harvard University is a world-renowned institution.
  • The Smithsonian Institution is famous for its museums.

Examples of usage

  • The National Academy of Sciences is a prestigious organization dedicated to scientific research.
  • He was elected as a member of the Academy of Arts and Letters.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Development

  • The first academy in history is often considered to be Plato's Academy, established around 387 BC in Athens.
  • In the Renaissance, academies re-emerged as centers for scholarly research and intellectual discourse, influencing modern education.

Cultural Significance

  • Throughout history, academies have played crucial roles in shaping educational standards and higher learning, particularly in Europe.
  • The concept of an academy has also inspired the establishment of numerous renowned institutions, such as the Acadรฉmie Franรงaise, founded in 1635 to regulate the French language.

Modern Usage

  • Today, 'academy' refers not only to traditional educational institutions but also to specialized schools focused on specific fields, such as military or performing arts.
  • Online learning platforms are now sometimes called academies, reflecting the shift toward digital education.

Influence on Language

  • The word has given rise to various terms such as 'academic' to describe activities related to education or scholarly work.
  • 'Academically' serves as an adverb to denote activities that take place in an academic setting.

Origin of 'academy'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'academy' originates from the Ancient Greek word 'Akademeia,' named after a sacred grove where Plato taught.
  • The word has evolved over centuries, with its meanings expanding to include institutions of higher learning and schools of art or music.

The word 'academy' originated from the Greek word 'Akademeia', which was the name of the gymnasium outside Athens where Plato taught. Over time, the term came to represent places of learning and intellectual pursuit. The concept of academies has evolved to encompass various educational institutions and organizations dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and expertise.


See also: academic.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,429 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.