Mentor: meaning, definitions and examples
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mentor
[ ˈmɛntɔːr ]
education
A mentor is an experienced and trusted advisor, usually in a professional setting, who guides and supports a less experienced individual in their personal and professional development.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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mentor |
Used when referring to someone with experience who supports and guides a less experienced person, often in a professional or academic setting.
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advisor |
Typically used for someone who provides advice or recommendations, often in an educational or financial context.
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guide |
Refers to someone who leads or shows the way to others, both physically (like a tour guide) and metaphorically (offering direction or advice).
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counselor |
Commonly used for someone who provides guidance and support, particularly on personal or emotional issues. It can have a more formal or therapeutic connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The new employee was assigned a mentor to help navigate the company culture.
- She credits her mentor with helping her advance in her career.
- Having a mentor can provide valuable insights and career advice.
- Many successful professionals attribute their achievements to the guidance of a mentor.
- Finding the right mentor can make a significant difference in one's career trajectory.
Translations
Translations of the word "mentor" in other languages:
🇵🇹 mentor
🇮🇳 परामर्शदाता
🇩🇪 Mentor
- Mentorin
- Berater
- Ratgeber
🇮🇩 mentor
🇺🇦 наставник
🇵🇱 mentor
- mentorka
- doradca
- przewodnik
🇯🇵 メンター
🇫🇷 mentor
- mentor(e)
- conseiller
- conseillère
🇪🇸 mentor
- mentora
- consejero
- consejera
🇹🇷 mentor
- akıl hocası
- danışman
🇰🇷 멘토
🇸🇦 مُرشِد
🇨🇿 mentor
- poradce
- učitel
🇸🇰 mentor
- poradca
- učiteľ
🇨🇳 导师
🇸🇮 mentor
🇮🇸 leiðbeinandi
🇰🇿 тәлімгер
🇬🇪 მენტორი
🇦🇿 mentor
🇲🇽 mentor
- mentora
- consejero
- consejera
Etymology
The word 'mentor' has its origins in Greek mythology. Mentor was a character in Homer's epic poem 'The Odyssey' who was entrusted with the care of Odysseus' son, Telemachus, while Odysseus was away at war. Over time, the term 'mentor' evolved to refer to a wise and trusted teacher or advisor. The concept of mentoring has since become widespread in various fields, including education, business, and personal development.