Word
mindset
Phoneticsmind·set, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈmaɪndˌsɛt/
UK/mˈaɪndsɛt/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a way of thinking about things that shapes how you handle situations. Your mindset affects whether you see a difficult task as a problem or a chance to learn.
n. an established set of attitudes or beliefs held by an individual or group. It determines how one interprets and responds to situations.
Examples
“Having a positive mindset can help you overcome daily challenges.”
“The coach worked hard to change the team's mindset from fearing failure to embracing it as a learning opportunity.”
“Transitioning from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset requires consistent self-reflection and a willingness to view setbacks as temporary rather than definitive.”
Examples
simple
“Having a positive mindset can help you overcome daily challenges.”
contextual
“The coach worked hard to change the team's mindset from fearing failure to embracing it as a learning opportunity.”
complex
“Transitioning from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset requires consistent self-reflection and a willingness to view setbacks as temporary rather than definitive.”
Usage
Often modified by adjectives like 'positive', 'fixed', or 'growth'; typically takes the preposition 'towards' or 'about'.
Real-World Examples
“Who cares if the other side score nine, we’ll score 10, seemed to be the mindset.” “It would have been quicker and easier to run the printer 24-7, but Penkethman-Young is pushing back on this mindset.” Etymology
From mind + set.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Synonyms
Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
INTERJECTION
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/mindset