English Reference
Idiom idiom

university of the streets


Synonym of school of hard knocks.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

He learned everything he knows at the university of the streets.

CONTEXTUAL

She never finished her degree, but she gained a sharp business sense from the university of the streets.

COMPLEX

While his peers studied theory in lecture halls, he navigated the university of the streets, acquiring a practical wisdom that no textbook could ever provide.


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    down the road, not across the street

    Of the technique for committing suicide, along the radial artery rather than across the wrist from side to side.

  2. 02

    easy street

    Chiefly preceded by on: a carefree lifestyle, especially as a result of becoming wealthy, or an easy situation.

  3. 03

    hit the streets

    To go out in search of something or for a specific purpose.

  4. 04

    jump street

    The starting point; the very beginning.

  5. 05

    keep off the streets

    To inspire or cause (someone) to avoid idleness, unemployment, poverty, or antisocial behavior.

  6. 06

    man in the street

    Synonym of man on the street.

  7. 07

    man on the street

    An ordinary member of the general public, especially one who lacks special expertise.

  8. 08

    street appeal

    Curb appeal.

Last updated August 10, 2026