bursar - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
bursar Word Meanings
- an official in charge of financial matters at a school or college
- a treasurer
- someone who manages funds or accounts
bursar Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
bursar Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈbɜːsə/
US
/ˈbɝːsɑr/
bursar Word Etymology
bursar = burs- (from Latin 'bursa', meaning 'purse' or 'bag') + -ar (agent noun suffix). Historical origin: Latin 'bursa' → Old French 'burse' → Middle English. Memory image: Imagine a person carrying a large purse filled with money, ensuring the funds are correctly managed for the school.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
An official in charge of financial matters at a school or college, the bursar is often the person who handles tuition income, pays suppliers, and maintains the ledger. In many universities, the role combines accounting, budgeting, and sometimes student financial services. The term comes from Latin bursa meaning purse, via Old French burse and Middle English, with the agent noun suffix ar. A good memory image is a person carrying a purse and carefully tracking every expense to balance the books.
Usage Reminders
- - Pronounce as BER-sar.
- - Do not confuse with bursary, which means a scholarship.
- - It is a formal job title, not just a cashier.
- - Used with phrases like the bursar's office and college finances.
- - Spelling ends with -sar, not -seer.
Common Misconceptions
- Bursar = cashier; it is a formal officer, not just someone who handles money casually.
- Bursar is the same as bursary (scholarship).
- Bursar is a general accounting term; it does not refer to budgeting or student financial services.
- The title is used only in universities, not in other organizations.
- Bursar is pronounced and spelled with an -ar ending, not -eer or -ary.
Thinking Differences
In English, bursar is a formal job title for a college financial officer; learners often confuse it with a general accountant or with bursary, the scholarship.
Learning Tips
- Learn the exact meaning: a formal college financial officer.
- Differentiate bursar from bursary (scholarship).
- Remember the word ends with -sar, not -sire or -seer.
- Use phrases like bursar's office or college finances in context.
- Practice with campus scenarios to solidify usage.
- Pay attention to pronunciation: BER-sar.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'bursar'?
A.An individual responsible for financial management at an educational institution
B.A type of tree
C.A musical term
D.A type of fish
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'bursar' correctly?
A.She spoke with the bursar about her tuition payments.
B.The bursar plays basketball every weekend.
C.He hired a bursar to paint his house.
D.They saw the bursar at the grocery store.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'bursar'?
A.Teacher
B.Treasurer
C.Counselor
D.Athlete
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'bursar'?
A.Debtor
B.Beneficiary
C.Payer
D.Student
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context involving a bursar?
A.The athlete broke a record at the championship.
B.Many students depend on the bursar to manage their financial aid.
C.A teacher assigned homework to her class.
D.She went shopping for groceries last weekend.
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