ENGLISH
REFERENCE

physical education

n. uncountable
A2 Elementary
Definition

n. the subject in school where you do sports and exercise to stay healthy. It is often called PE for short.

n. instruction in physical exercise and games, especially in schools. Often referred to by the initialism PE.


SIMPLE

Students change into their sports clothes for physical education.

CONTEXTUAL

The school curriculum includes physical education twice a week to ensure that teenagers remain active and healthy during the term.

COMPLEX

Modern physical education aims to foster a lifelong commitment to fitness while teaching the collaborative skills necessary for team sports and social interaction.

Usage

Commonly abbreviated to 'PE' in both spoken and written English.

Pitfall

I have a physical education todayI have physical education todayLike most school subjects, it is uncountable and does not take the indefinite article 'a'.

© 2026 English Reference