university
Meaning: A high-level educational institution where students study for degrees
The word 'university' refers to an institution of higher education where students study for degrees. In British English, we say 'go to university' (without 'the'). 'Uni' is the common informal abbreviation. Students attend 'lectures' and write 'dissertations' at university.
Examples
- She's studying medicine at university. 她在大学学医。Ella está estudiando medicina en la universidad.彼女は大学で医学を勉強しています。그녀는 대학교에서 의학을 공부하고 있습니다.
- Which university did you go to? 你上的是哪所大学?¿A qué universidad fuiste?どの大学に行きましたか?어느 대학교에 다녔나요?
- The university has an excellent reputation for research. 这所大学在研究方面享有很高的声誉。La universidad tiene una excelente reputación en investigación.その大学は研究で優れた評判を持っています。그 대학교는 연구 분야에서 탁월한 명성을 갖고 있습니다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: general
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Old French 'université', from Latin 'universitas' meaning 'the whole, the universe', later 'a corporation or society'. Originally referred to the whole community of teachers and students. Oxford was founded around 1096.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
Story & Trivia
The word comes from Latin 'universitas' meaning 'the whole.' Oxford and Cambridge are the oldest universities in the English-speaking world, founded in the 12th and 13th centuries respectively.
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