Mentors: meaning, definitions and examples

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mentors

[ˈmɛntɔrz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

education

Experienced and trusted advisors or teachers who provide guidance and support to less experienced individuals, typically in a professional or educational setting.

Synonyms

advisors, guides, tutors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mentors	Use when referring to someone who provides guidance and support over a longer period, often in a professional or personal development context. Her mentors helped her navigate her career path. He became a mentor to many young entrepreneurs.
advisors	Best used for individuals who provide expert advice, often in a professional or educational setting. They typically specialize in a specific area. She consulted with her financial advisor before making any investments. The school appointed new academic advisors to help students with their course selections.
guides	Appropriate when talking about someone who leads or directs in a specific task, journey, or process, offering practical and immediate support. The tour guide showed us all the historical landmarks. She acted as a guide for the new employees, helping them settle in.
tutors	Use when referring to someone who provides individual or small group instruction, typically in an academic subject. The math tutor helped her understand algebra concepts. He hired a tutor to improve his language skills.

Examples of usage

The mentors at the university helped the new students adjust to campus life.
She sought advice from her mentors on how to advance in her career.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

education

To advise or train someone, typically a less experienced individual, by sharing knowledge, expertise, and support.

Synonyms

advise, coach, guide.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mentors	Use this word when referring to experienced and trusted advisors who provide ongoing support and guidance, often in a professional or educational setting. Mentors build long-term relationships with those they help. She had several mentors throughout her academic career Mentors can make a huge difference in a student's life
advise	This word is used when giving suggestions or recommendations on what should be done in a specific situation. It is often used in both informal and formal settings, but usually refers to a one-time or short-term interaction. Can you advise me on which course to take? The doctor will advise you on the best treatment options
guide	This word applies when someone is leading or showing the way, whether figuratively or literally. A guide offers direction but not necessarily an ongoing relationship. She served as a guide for the new employees The tour guide showed us around the historic city
coach	Use this word in situations where someone is training or instructing others in sports, a specific skill, or professional development. Coaching typically involves a more structured approach than mentoring. He is a life coach who helps people achieve their personal goals The football coach devised a new training regimen for the team

Examples of usage

The professor chose to mentor several students in her research project.
He enjoys mentoring young professionals who are new to the industry.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'mentor' comes from the character Mentor in Homer's epic, 'The Odyssey.'
In the story, Mentor was a wise advisor to Telemachus, the son of Odysseus, helping him find his father.
The use of the term to describe teachers or guides became popular in the 18th century.

Education

Studies have shown that students with mentors are more likely to succeed academically and professionally.
Mentoring relationships provide social support, which can foster resilience and confidence in learners.
Effective mentoring can take many forms, such as one-on-one sessions, group discussions, or even online interactions.

Pop Culture

Popular movies and books often feature mentor characters, such as Mr. Miyagi in 'The Karate Kid' and Yoda in 'Star Wars.'
Mentorship themes highlight personal growth and overcoming challenges found in many inspiring stories.
The mentor-mentee relationship is often depicted in coming-of-age films, symbolizing the journey of self-discovery.

Psychology

Mentorship can enhance self-efficacy, which is a belief in one’s capability to achieve goals.
Having a mentor can decrease feelings of isolation, especially for individuals in challenging environments.
Mentoring can also provide emotional support, helping mentees navigate their personal and professional lives.

Business

Corporate mentorship programs are designed to foster leadership skills and employee retention.
Many successful entrepreneurs credit mentors for providing essential advice that shaped their careers.
Mentorship in the workplace often leads to increased job satisfaction and professional growth.

Translations

Translations of the word "mentors" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mentores

🇮🇳 मार्गदर्शक

🇩🇪 Mentoren

🇮🇩 pembimbing

🇺🇦 наставники

🇵🇱 mentorzy

🇯🇵 メンター

🇫🇷 mentors

🇪🇸 mentores

🇹🇷 rehberler

🇰🇷 멘토

🇸🇦 المرشدون

🇨🇿 mentoři

🇸🇰 mentori

🇨🇳 导师

🇸🇮 mentorji

🇮🇸 leiðbeinendur

🇰🇿 наставниктер

🇬🇪 მენტორები

🇦🇿 mentorlar

🇲🇽 mentores

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,544, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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17541 unclassified
17542 ode
17543 maneuvering
17544 mentors
17545 stifling
17546 germanium
17547 cupola
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