University Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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university
[ˌjuː.nɪˈvɜː.sə.ti ]
Definitions
education
An educational institution designed for instruction, examination, or both, of students in many branches of advanced learning, conferring degrees in various faculties, and often embodying colleges and similar institutions.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| university |
This is typically used for higher education institutions that offer undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. These institutions often have a wide range of faculties and departments and are involved in research activities.
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| college |
Commonly used in the US to refer to institutions that provide undergraduate education. It can also be a part of a university. In the UK and other countries, it might refer to secondary education or specialized courses.
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| institution |
A broad term that can refer to any established organization, especially in education or research. It is not limited to educational contexts and can imply a more formal or prestigious nature.
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| school |
Often used to refer to educational institutions for children and teenagers, but can also refer to divisions within a college or university, such as a 'business school'.
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Examples of usage
- She is studying psychology at the university.
- He graduated from the university with a degree in engineering.
location
The grounds and buildings of such an institution.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| university |
Use this term when referring to the entire institution of higher learning, including its academic programs, administration, and other associated aspects.
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| campus |
This term is suitable for referring to the physical land and buildings owned by a university where students attend classes, live, and engage in other activities.
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| grounds |
This word is best used when talking about the outdoor areas of the university, such as gardens, lawns, and other landscaped areas.
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| premises |
Use this term when referring to the land and buildings owned by the university, often in formal or legal contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The university is located in the heart of the city.
- The university campus is known for its beautiful architecture.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- The oldest existing university is the University of Bologna in Italy, founded in 1088 AD.
- Oxford University in England is also one of the oldest, with teaching as early as the 12th century, making it a center of learning for centuries.
Global Impact
- Universities contribute significantly to economic growth by producing skilled workers and fostering innovation.
- They also play a critical role in promoting social mobility, allowing people from various backgrounds to improve their circumstances through education.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, universities are regarded as gateways to success, often viewed as prestigious institutions.
- They have also been centers of social change, serving as places for important discussions on civil rights and political movements.
Academic Life
- Students at universities can choose from a wide range of subjects, from sciences to humanities, tailoring their education to their interests.
- Extracurricular activities, including clubs and sports, are essential aspects of university life, fostering community and personal growth.
Origin of 'university'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'universitas', meaning 'the whole, total, or entire' - it refers to a community of teachers and scholars.
- In medieval times, 'universitas' was used to describe a guild of students and teachers.
The word 'university' originated from the Latin word 'universitas' which means 'the whole'. It was first used in the 13th century to refer to an institution of higher learning. Universities have a long history dating back to the Middle Ages when they were established as centers of learning and scholarship. Over the centuries, universities have evolved into complex institutions offering a wide range of academic disciplines and research opportunities.
See also: universal, universality, universalize.