Coaches: meaning, definitions and examples

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coaches

[ˈkoʊ.tʃɪz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

sports

A coach is a person who trains and directs athletes or performers.

Synonyms

instructor, mentor, trainer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
coaches	Use this term typically for someone who trains a team or an individual in sports or in a specific skill set. It can also be used in a business setting for someone who helps improve performance. The football team was in need of new coaches after their last season. Many executives benefit from having leadership coaches to enhance their management skills.
trainer	This term commonly applies to someone who provides practical training and help to develop specific skills, often in a professional or physical fitness context. She hired a personal trainer to help her get in shape for the marathon. The company brought in a technology trainer to assist employees with new software.
instructor	This word often refers to someone who teaches a specific subject or skill, usually in an educational setting such as a school, college, or specialized training center. The driving instructor made sure all students knew the safety rules. She is an experienced yoga instructor with many regular students.
mentor	This is used for someone who provides guidance, advice, and wisdom, often in a less formal, ongoing, and broad-based relationship. Mentors are usually experienced individuals helping someone less experienced. He became a mentor for many young entrepreneurs in the tech industry. Having a good mentor can make a big difference early in your career.

Examples of usage

The coaches are responsible for developing the skills of the players.
The team's coach provides guidance and motivation to the athletes.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

training

To coach means to train or instruct someone in a particular skill or sport.

Synonyms

instruct, mentor, train.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
train	Used when referring to a process where someone is taught the skills needed to perform a specific job, task, or activity. Training often implies a structured and systematic approach. The company will train new employees on how to use the software He trains every day to prepare for the marathon
instruct	Used in formal or educational settings where someone is giving direct instructions or teaching someone how to do something specific. It often implies a one-way communication where the instructor provides information. The teacher will instruct the students on how to solve the equations He instructed me to turn left at the next intersection
mentor	Suitable for situations involving a long-term relationship where someone with more experience provides advice and guidance to a less experienced person. Mentors often offer support and encouragement rather than direct instruction. She found a mentor who helped guide her career choices He mentors young entrepreneurs in his community

Word

Description / Examples

train

Used when referring to a process where someone is taught the skills needed to perform a specific job, task, or activity. Training often implies a structured and systematic approach.

The company will train new employees on how to use the software
He trains every day to prepare for the marathon

instruct

Used in formal or educational settings where someone is giving direct instructions or teaching someone how to do something specific. It often implies a one-way communication where the instructor provides information.

The teacher will instruct the students on how to solve the equations
He instructed me to turn left at the next intersection

mentor

Suitable for situations involving a long-term relationship where someone with more experience provides advice and guidance to a less experienced person. Mentors often offer support and encouragement rather than direct instruction.

She found a mentor who helped guide her career choices
He mentors young entrepreneurs in his community

Examples of usage

She coaches the young swimmers on technique and endurance.
He coached the team to victory in the championship game.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'coach' dates back to the 1500s and originally referred to a large, horse-drawn carriage, symbolizing guidance and transport.
In the 19th century, it was used in academia, where a 'coach' was someone who helped students prepare for exams.
Sports coaching emerged in the late 19th century, evolving from methods used in education to training athletes.

Psychology

Effective coaching can enhance an athlete’s confidence and self-esteem, crucial for peak performance.
Positive reinforcement from coaches can lead to improved teamwork and motivation among players.
Research shows that a coach's emotional intelligence significantly impacts athlete development and satisfaction.

Pop Culture

Coaches are often celebrated in sports films, such as 'Remember the Titans' and 'Coach Carter,' highlighting their inspirational roles.
In the realm of music, pop star Justin Bieber refers to his manager as his 'coach,' reflecting the expanding role of coaching beyond sports.
Television shows like 'The Voice' showcase celebrity coaches mentoring aspiring singers, bringing the concept to mainstream culture.

Science

Studies show that teams with effective coaching strategies often outperform those that lack clear guidance.
Biologically, a coach observing players can identify areas where physical training can enhance performance and reduce injuries.
Coaching techniques can tap into neural adaptability, aiding skill acquisition in motor tasks.

Literature

In literary works, coaches are often depicted as wise mentors, guiding protagonists on their journeys, akin to figures like Gandalf in 'The Lord of the Rings.'
Autobiographies of famous coaches, such as Phil Jackson, detail their strategies and philosophies that extend beyond sports.
Fictional characters in young adult novels, like the coach in 'The Miracle Season,' emphasize resilience and teamwork, central themes in youth literature.

Translations

Translations of the word "coaches" in other languages:

🇵🇹 treinadores

🇮🇳 कोच

🇩🇪 Trainer

🇮🇩 pelatih

🇺🇦 тренери

🇵🇱 trenerzy

🇯🇵 コーチ

🇫🇷 entraîneurs

🇪🇸 entrenadores

🇹🇷 antrenörler

🇰🇷 코치

🇸🇦 مدربون

🇨🇿 trenéři

🇸🇰 tréneri

🇨🇳 教练

🇸🇮 trenerji

🇮🇸 þjálfarar

🇰🇿 жаттықтырушылар

🇬🇪 მწვრთნელები

🇦🇿 məşqçilər

🇲🇽 entrenadores

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,488 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.

...
9485 folio
9486 traction
9487 blended
9488 coaches
9489 coordinating
9490 regain
9491 damping
...