English Reference
noun

education

n.
US /ˌɛdʒəˈkeɪʃən/ UK /ˌɛdʒuːkˈeɪʃən/ ed·u·ca·tion UK spelling educations

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    the process of teaching people, especially in a school, college, or university.

    the systematic process of imparting or acquiring general knowledge, developing the powers of reasoning and judgment, and preparing oneself or others intellectually for mature life.

    Simple

    The government is spending more money on education to improve local schools.

    In context

    Universal access to primary education remains a cornerstone of international development goals, aimed at reducing systemic poverty across the region.

    Usage

    Uncountable when referring to the general system or process.

  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    the particular school or university experience that a person had.

    the specific stage or type of formal instruction received by an individual.

    Simple

    She received a good education at a small private college in the city.

    In context

    His formal education was interrupted by the war, though he later completed his degree through a series of correspondence courses.

    Usage

    Countable in this sense; often preceded by an adjective like 'good', 'formal', or 'technical'.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    the knowledge and skills you have gained through learning.

    the wealth of knowledge, acquired skills, and developed character resulting from a period of study.

    Simple

    Travel can give you a different kind of education than books do.

    In context

    The internship provided a practical education in corporate law that no classroom lecture could fully replicate.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate Academic Science

    the study of how to teach people.

    the field of study that deals with the methods and problems of teaching; pedagogy.

    Simple

    After finishing her degree, she decided to pursue a career in education.

    In context

    Recent research in education suggests that smaller class sizes significantly improve student engagement in mathematics.

    Usage

    Often used as a modifier, as in 'education department' or 'education policy'.

    pedagogydidactics
Don't confuse

education vs upbringing — Education happens in a classroom or through study, while upbringing is the way parents raise a child at home.

Usage education employment · education minister · education policy

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Very common
Updated