academy
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
a school or college that teaches a specific subject or skill, like music, sports, or military training.
An institution providing specialized training in a particular art, profession, or field of study.
Simple“She was accepted into the royal music academy to study the violin.”
In context“The police academy requires all recruits to undergo rigorous physical training and legal examinations before they can serve on the force.”
- 02 C1 Advanced
a group of famous experts who work together to protect or improve arts, science, or language.
A society of scholars, artists, or scientists dedicated to the advancement of a specific field of knowledge.
Simple“The French Academy is famous for protecting the purity of the French language.”
In context“Election to the national academy of sciences is considered one of the highest honors a researcher can achieve in their career.”
Synonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
in the UK, a school that gets money directly from the government instead of the local council.
In the United Kingdom, a state-funded school that is independent of local authority control and has more freedom over its curriculum.
Simple“The local high school became an academy last year to get more funding.”
In context“The government's plan to convert all failing schools into academies met with significant resistance from local teaching unions.”
Synonymscharter school - 04 C2 Proficiency
the school started by the philosopher Plato in ancient Greece.
The school of philosophy founded by Plato in Athens, or the garden where he taught his disciples.
Simple“Students in the ancient Academy studied mathematics and philosophy under Plato.”
In context“The influence of the original Academy persisted for centuries, shaping the development of Western metaphysical thought.”
- 05 C1 Advanced
the world of universities, research, and serious study.
The collective environment or community of higher education and research; often used interchangeably with 'academia'.
Simple“After years in the academy, the professor decided to work for a private company.”
In context“Critics argue that the academy has become too detached from the practical needs of the modern workforce.”
Synonymsacademiauniversity world
“Premier League clubs are continuing to recruit young players from EFL and Scottish academies for their U21 and B-team squads.”
“He’s also a product of Barcelona’s La Masia youth academy, and can skilfully start attacks from the back.”