College Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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college
[ˈkɒlɪdʒ ]
Definitions
higher education
An educational institution or establishment offering higher education or specialized professional or vocational training.
Synonyms
institute, school, university.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| college |
Note that the term is repeated; it has similar uses and meanings as in the first context. Use it to describe a smaller institution compared to a university.
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| university |
Use this term for larger institutions that offer both undergraduate and graduate programs. They usually consist of multiple colleges or faculties.
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| school |
Refers to any educational institution but is most commonly used for primary and secondary education. Can also be used to describe departments within a university.
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| institute |
Best used to describe specialized schools or organizations focused on research or specific fields of study, such as technology or arts. Often used in the name of the institution.
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Examples of usage
- She is studying at the college of engineering.
- He decided to pursue a degree at a community college.
group of people
A group of people acting as an advisory body for a community or organization.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| college |
Use this word when referring to an educational institution that offers higher education, such as universities and community colleges.
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| committee |
Use this word for a smaller group of people within a larger organization who have been given a specific task or set of tasks.
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| council |
This word is best used to describe a formal group that governs or advises a community, organization, or country.
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| board |
This word is appropriate when discussing a group of people who manage a company or an organization. It can also refer to a flat piece of material used for certain purposes, but in this context, it refers to a decision-making body.
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Examples of usage
- The college of physicians and surgeons made recommendations for improving healthcare policies.
- She was elected to the college of directors for the charity organization.
consideration
To consider or deliberate thoughtfully.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| college |
An institution of higher education where students pursue degrees, often used in the context of American or Canadian education systems.
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| analyze |
To examine something in detail in order to understand it better, commonly used in academic, scientific, and problem-solving contexts.
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| evaluate |
To determine the significance, worth, or condition by careful study, often used in professional, academic, and project management contexts.
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| assess |
To evaluate or estimate the nature, ability, or quality of something, often used in educational, professional, and medical fields.
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Examples of usage
- I need to college all the information before making a decision.
- He will college the feedback from the focus group.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'college' comes from the Latin word 'colligere,' meaning 'to gather together,' reflecting its purpose of bringing people for collective learning.
- The first universities, like the University of Bologna founded in 1088, emerged as centers of higher education and scholarly activity in medieval Europe.
- Early colleges in the U.S., like Harvard, were established in the 17th century to train ministers and promote higher learning.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, attending college is seen as a significant milestone and a rite of passage into adulthood.
- Colleges often foster a sense of community among students, with traditions and events that promote belonging and collaboration.
- In some cultures, the prestige of attending certain colleges can greatly influence social status and career opportunities.
Educational Systems
- In the U.S., there are various types of colleges, such as community colleges, which offer two-year degrees and vocational training.
- Colleges around the world vary greatly in focus, with some specializing in arts, sciences, or technical fields, each providing unique educational paths.
- College curricula often include a mix of required courses and electives, allowing students to explore diverse subjects before specializing.
Pop Culture
- College experiences are commonly explored in movies and TV shows, highlighting both the challenges and fun aspects of student life.
- Popular tropes include parties, friendships, and the quest for knowledge, often depicted in series like 'Friends' or movies like 'Legally Blonde.'
- College sports, especially in the U.S., are a huge part of pop culture, featuring competitive teams and vibrant school spirit.
Origin of 'college'
The word 'college' originates from the Latin word 'collegium', which means a community, society, or body of collegiates. In ancient times, colleges were primarily institutions of higher learning, typically offering degrees and specialized training. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings, including advisory bodies and groups of people with shared interests or responsibilities.