Pupil: meaning, definitions and examples

Used mainly in British English to refer to young children who attend primary or elementary school.

• The teacher called the pupil to the front of the class to solve the math problem.
• The school has about 300 pupils, ranging from ages 5 to 11.

Commonly used term for anyone who is studying at any educational institution, including primary, secondary, and higher education.

• The university has over 20,000 students enrolled in various programs.
• As a student at Harvard, she excelled in her studies and extracurricular activities.

General term for someone who is in the process of acquiring knowledge or a skill, often used in contexts involving self-directed study or learning new skills.

• Every learner has their own pace; some grasp concepts quickly, while others need more time.
• As a language learner, it is important to practice speaking regularly.

Refers to a person who has extensive knowledge in a particular subject, often used for someone who does advanced studies or has a high level of expertise. It can also refer to someone who has received a scholarship.

• She is a renowned scholar in the field of medieval history.
• He was awarded the title of 'Rhodes Scholar' for his academic excellence.

Use 'pupil' when you are talking about the black circular opening in the center of the eye that lets light in.

• The pupil contracts in bright light.
• Her pupils were dilated.

Use 'eye' when referring to the entire organ of vision.

• She has beautiful blue eyes.
• I need to go to the doctor to have my eyes checked.

Use 'iris' to refer to the colored part of the eye that controls the size of the pupil and thus the amount of light that enters the eye.

• Her iris is a striking shade of green.
• The iris adjusts the size of the pupil in response to light.

Use 'aperture' most often in technical or photographic contexts to describe an opening, hole, or gap, especially in optical instruments, like cameras.

• The camera aperture needs to be adjusted for proper exposure.
• Light passed through the aperture and illuminated the stage.