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Seminar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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seminar

[หˆsษ›m.ษช.nษ‘หr ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

education

A seminar is a small group of students engaged in study and discussion under the guidance of a teacher, usually meeting regularly.

Synonyms

discussion group, tutorial, workshop.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
seminar

A formal meeting for discussion or training, typically in an academic or professional setting. Usually involves a group of people who discuss a topic in depth, often led by an expert.

  • The university held a seminar on climate change.
  • Attending the seminar greatly enhanced my understanding of the subject.
workshop

A brief, intensive course focusing on practical skills or techniques. It involves interactive participation and hands-on activities, often used in creative and professional fields.

  • I attended a workshop on creative writing last weekend.
  • The team participated in a workshop to improve their problem-solving skills.
tutorial

A session of intensive instruction given by a tutor to an individual or a small group. It is often one-on-one or in a very small group, focusing on detailed teaching.

  • She attended a tutorial to improve her math skills.
  • The professor offers weekly tutorials for students needing extra help.
discussion group

A group of people who meet to talk about particular topics. Itโ€™s usually informal and can occur in various settings like schools, communities, or online.

  • We formed a discussion group to talk about the new policy changes.
  • The book club serves as a great discussion group for literary enthusiasts.

Examples of usage

  • The professor conducts a seminar on advanced mathematics every Friday afternoon.
  • Students are expected to actively participate in the seminar by presenting their research findings.
  • In the seminar, students have the opportunity to delve deeper into the subject matter.
  • The seminar focused on the impact of climate change on global economies.
  • Attending a seminar can enhance your understanding of the topic.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Education

  • In many universities, seminars are often used to encourage in-depth discussion and collaborative learning among students.
  • Some academic systems, like the โ€˜Socratic seminarโ€™, emphasize critical thinking and dialogue rather than lectures.
  • Seminars play a crucial role in graduate education, helping students develop research skills and present their findings.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, seminars are pivotal for professional development, helping adults update skills and knowledge.
  • They can cover a wide range of topics, from health and wellness to technology and industry innovations.
  • Webinars, a modern adaptation of seminars, have gained popularity through online platforms, especially post-2020.

Professional Development

  • Many industries use seminars for training purposes, enabling employees to stay current with trends and practices.
  • Networking opportunities are often a key component of seminars, allowing professionals to connect and collaborate.
  • The format can vary widely, from interactive discussions to lectures, making them adaptable to audience needs.

Origin of 'seminar'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'seminarium', which means 'seed plot', suggesting a place where ideas can grow.
  • Originally, 'seminar' was used in academic settings to describe a place where students could cultivate knowledge.
  • The term began to take on its modern meaning in the 19th century, evolving into the structured format we see today.

The word 'seminar' originates from the Latin word 'seminarium', which means a seed plot or nursery. In the 19th century, the term evolved to refer to a group of students meeting with a teacher for discussion and study. Seminars have become a common educational practice in universities and colleges worldwide, providing students with a platform for interactive learning and academic exploration.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,363 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.