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Mentor: meaning, definitions and examples

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mentor

 

[ˈmɛntɔːr ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

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

advisor, counselor, guide.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mentor

Used when referring to someone with experience who supports and guides a less experienced person, often in a professional or academic setting.

  • She found a great mentor who helped her navigate her career path.
  • My mentor gave me valuable advice on my thesis.
advisor

Typically used for someone who provides advice or recommendations, often in an educational or financial context.

  • The school advisor helped me choose my courses for the upcoming semester.
  • He works as a financial advisor for a large corporation.
guide

Refers to someone who leads or shows the way to others, both physically (like a tour guide) and metaphorically (offering direction or advice).

  • The tour guide showed us around the ancient ruins.
  • He acted as a spiritual guide for the new members of the community.
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.

  • She spoke with the school counselor about her stress and anxiety.
  • He became a grief counselor to help people deal with loss.

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'mentor' originates from Greek mythology, where Mentor was a friend of Odysseus and guided his son Telemachus.
  • In the early 19th century, the term began to be used in English to describe a wise and trusted advisor.

Education

  • Mentorship is a common practice in schools and workplaces, helping individuals grow by learning from someone more experienced.
  • Studies show that having a mentor can significantly enhance professional development and personal growth.

Pop Culture

  • Popular movies often depict mentor-mentee relationships, such as Mr. Miyagi from 'The Karate Kid,' who teaches valuable life lessons.
  • In the Harry Potter series, Albus Dumbledore serves as a mentor to Harry, guiding him through challenges.

Psychology

  • Mentoring relationships can boost self-esteem and motivation, as mentees receive encouragement and constructive feedback.
  • The mentor-mentee dynamic can enhance emotional intelligence, helping both parties develop important social skills.

Business

  • Many successful business leaders attribute part of their success to having a mentor who guided them in their careers.
  • Corporate mentorship programs are designed to help new employees adjust and grow, fostering a supportive work culture.

Translations

Translations of the word "mentor" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mentor

🇮🇳 परामर्शदाता

🇩🇪 Mentor

🇮🇩 mentor

🇺🇦 наставник

🇵🇱 mentor

🇯🇵 メンター

🇫🇷 mentor

🇪🇸 mentor

🇹🇷 mentor

🇰🇷 멘토

🇸🇦 مُرشِد

🇨🇿 mentor

🇸🇰 mentor

🇨🇳 导师

🇸🇮 mentor

🇮🇸 leiðbeinandi

🇰🇿 тәлімгер

🇬🇪 მენტორი

🇦🇿 mentor

🇲🇽 mentor

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,778, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.