Learnt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
learnt
[lษหnt ]
Definition
past tense
Learnt is the simple past tense and past participle of the verb 'learn'. It signifies the process of acquiring knowledge or skills through experience, study, or instruction. The usage of 'learnt' is more common in British English, while 'learned' is often used in American English. Both forms, however, are understood internationally. The action of learning can refer to a wide range of activities, from formal education to informal life experiences.
Synonyms
acquired, grasped, mastered, understood.
Examples of usage
- I learnt to play the guitar last year.
- She learnt about different cultures during her travels.
- They learnt the importance of teamwork in the project.
- He has learnt many lessons from his mistakes.
Translations
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Origin of 'learnt'
The word 'learnt' originates from the Old English verb 'leornian', which means 'to gain knowledge, be made acquainted with, or to understand'. This root can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic '*liznan', which evolved into various forms in different Germanic languages. Over the centuries, the term evolved and adopted different prefixes and forms, leading to the current usage. In Middle English, the past tense formed as 'learnd' later transformed into 'learnt' in Modern English, particularly in British vernacular. The acceptance of 'learned' in American English as a past tense also arose from linguistic evolution influenced by regional dialects. The variation in form reflects the rich tapestry of language development influenced by geography, culture, and communication practices.