Tutoring Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tutoring

[ˈtjuːtərɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

education

Tutoring is the act of teaching or instructing a student in a particular subject or skill outside of a formal classroom setting. It involves personalized attention and guidance to help the student improve their understanding and performance.

Synonyms

coaching, mentoring, teaching.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tutoring

Tutoring is suitable when someone needs one-on-one help with specific academic subjects or skills, often outside of a formal classroom setting.

  • She hired a math tutor to help her with calculus.
  • He offers tutoring sessions for high school students preparing for exams.
teaching

Teaching is most appropriate in a formal educational environment where instruction is delivered to a group of students or learners.

  • She has been teaching science at the high school for over a decade.
  • His passion is teaching literature at the university.
coaching

Coaching is ideal for helping someone improve in a particular sport, activity, or skill. It often involves motivation and performance enhancement.

  • He received coaching to improve his tennis serve.
  • The coach worked with the team to develop better strategies.
mentoring

Mentoring is best in professional development contexts where an experienced person guides and advises a less experienced person on career or personal growth.

  • She has been mentoring young engineers for years.
  • He found a mentor to help him navigate his new job.

Examples of usage

  • Many students seek tutoring to get extra help with difficult subjects.
  • The tutoring session focused on improving the student's math skills.
Context #2 | Verb

education

To tutor means to provide individualized instruction or guidance to a student in a specific subject or skill. It involves helping the student understand concepts, solve problems, and improve their overall performance.

Synonyms

coach, mentor, teach.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tutoring

When you need one-on-one instruction or help with a specific subject or skill, typically in an educational context.

  • She is getting tutoring for her math class.
  • I hired a tutor to help me with my biology studies.
teach

General term used for conveying knowledge or skills, can apply to formal or informal settings.

  • She teaches English at the local high school.
  • He loves to teach kids how to play musical instruments.
coach

Used when referring to someone who trains or instructs in sports or a specific skill, but can also apply to professional or personal development contexts.

  • The basketball coach worked with the team every afternoon.
  • She hired a career coach to help her advance in her job.
mentor

Involves a long-term relationship where an experienced person guides and advises someone less experienced, often in a professional or personal growth context.

  • He is my mentor at work and has helped me navigate my career.
  • She acts as a mentor to young entrepreneurs starting their own businesses.

Examples of usage

  • She tutors students in English grammar and writing.
  • He tutored the student in preparation for the exam.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Educational Impact

  • Studies show that students who receive tutoring often perform significantly better in school than those who do not.
  • One-on-one tutoring can cater to a student's individual learning style, making lessons more effective and personalized.

Pop Culture

  • In films like 'Good Will Hunting', tutoring plays a crucial role in helping the main character unlock his potential.
  • TV shows often depict tutors as quirky characters who become integral in their students' journeys to success.

Modern Trends

  • With the rise of technology, online tutoring has become popular, allowing students to learn from anywhere in the world.
  • Many parents hire tutors to assist their children remotely, adapting to busy schedules and different learning needs.

Historical Perspectives

  • Before formal schools were widespread, wealthy families often hired tutors to teach their children at home.
  • In ancient Greece, philosophers like Socrates used dialogue and personal mentorship, resembling modern tutoring practices.

Origin of 'tutoring'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'tutor', which means 'to guard or protect', showing a tutor's role in helping students.
  • In the 16th century, 'tutoring' referred to educating young people under the guidance of a person skilled in knowledge.

The term 'tutoring' originated from the Latin word 'tutor', meaning 'guardian' or 'protector'. In ancient times, a tutor was a person entrusted with the education and guidance of a young student. Over the years, tutoring has evolved into a common practice to provide additional academic support outside of the traditional classroom environment.


See also: tutor, tutorial, tutors.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,608, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.