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Course: meaning, definitions and examples

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course

 

[kɔːs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

education

A course refers to a series of lessons or lectures on a particular subject, usually leading to a qualification or certification. It is a structured educational program designed to help students learn specific knowledge or skills.

Synonyms

class, module, program.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
course

Often refers to a series of lectures or lessons on a particular subject. Can be used in both academic and non-academic settings.

  • I'm taking a math course this semester.
  • They offer a cooking course at the community center.
program

Refers to a set of related courses or classes leading to a degree or certification, often encompassing multiple subjects or skills.

  • She's enrolled in the master's program in computer science.
  • The training program lasts for six months.
class

It's usually a single session where students are taught by a teacher. The word can also refer to a group of students who are taught together.

  • I have an English class at 10 AM tomorrow.
  • The whole class went on a field trip to the museum.
module

Commonly used in higher education, especially in universities, referring to a unit or section of a larger academic program or course.

  • The psychology degree includes a module on human behavior.
  • I'm struggling with the statistics module this term.

Examples of usage

  • She is taking a course in psychology at the university.
  • The online course covers a wide range of topics in business management.
Context #2 | Noun

sports

In sports, a course is the route or track along which a race or game takes place. It can refer to the physical terrain or path that athletes follow during competitions.

Synonyms

route, track, trail.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
course

Used for academic subjects or a series of lessons in a particular subject. Also used for the path taken by an object or person.

  • She is taking a course in biology.
  • The plane changed its course due to bad weather.
track

Used for paths specifically made for running, racing, or trains. Also can refer to progress being monitored.

  • They built a new running track at the school.
  • She lost track of time while studying.
route

Used for a specific path or direction taken to get to a destination. Often used for travel or transportation.

  • What's the best route to take to get to the city?
  • The bus route has been changed due to road construction.
trail

Used for paths through a natural environment, like forests or mountains, often for hiking.

  • We followed a trail through the woods.
  • The hiking trail is well-marked and easy to follow.

Examples of usage

  • The golf course is known for its challenging holes and beautiful scenery.
  • The marathon course winds through the city streets and parks.
Context #3 | Verb

direction

As a verb, to course means to run or flow in a particular direction. It can also indicate the natural path or movement of something.

Synonyms

flow, move, run.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
course

Use when referring to a series of lessons or lectures in a particular field of study.

  • He signed up for a course in digital marketing.
  • The university offers a wide range of courses.
flow

Use when talking about something that moves continuously and smoothly in a certain direction, often used for liquids or to describe unfaltering progress.

  • The river's flow was particularly strong after the storm.
  • Her ideas seemed to flow naturally during the presentation.
run

Use when referring to the action of moving quickly on foot, also used to describe the operation of machines or ongoing activities.

  • She decided to go for a run in the park.
  • The software runs smoothly on the new computer.
move

Use when referring to changing position or making progress in a physical or metaphorical sense.

  • He decided to move to a new city to start fresh.
  • The company is planning to move forward with the project next month.

Examples of usage

  • The river courses through the valley towards the sea.
  • The blood courses through the veins in the human body.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Latin 'cursus', meaning 'race' or 'running course'.
  • In Middle English, 'cours' was associated with running, reflecting how a course is a pathway or direction.
  • By the 14th century, the term began being used in education to describe a series of teachings.

Education

  • Courses can vary in length, from a few days to several years, depending on the subject.
  • Many online platforms now offer courses that allow learners to study at their own pace.
  • A course can lead to certifications or degrees, helping students pursue their careers.

Culinary Arts

  • In dining, a 'course' refers to a specific part of a meal, such as the appetizer, main course, or dessert.
  • French cuisine famously presents meals in multiple courses, allowing diners to experience a variety of flavors.
  • The sequence and presentation of courses can elevate a dining experience, making it feel more special.

Navigation and Sports

  • In sailing and aviation, a 'course' refers to the intended direction of travel, often plotted on a map.
  • Courses in sports like golf or horse racing describe the path that participants take during the event.
  • Tracking a course is crucial for navigating effectively, whether in vehicles or during outdoor activities.

Pop Culture

  • Many popular TV shows and movies feature characters attending courses, shaping their personal growth and relationships.
  • Reality shows like 'Dancing with the Stars' often involve courses where participants learn and compete in dances.
  • The concept of courses is explored in various forms of media, portraying the journey of learning and self-discovery.

Translations

Translations of the word "course" in other languages:

🇵🇹 curso

🇮🇳 कोर्स

🇩🇪 Kurs

🇮🇩 kursus

🇺🇦 курс

🇵🇱 kurs

🇯🇵 コース

🇫🇷 cours

🇪🇸 curso

🇹🇷 kurs

🇰🇷 코스

🇸🇦 دورة

🇨🇿 kurz

🇸🇰 kurz

🇨🇳 课程

🇸🇮 tečaj

🇮🇸 námskeið

🇰🇿 курс

🇬🇪 კურსი

🇦🇿 kurs

🇲🇽 curso

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #174, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.