scholarship - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
scholarship Word Meanings
- a grant or payment made to support a student's education
- a form of financial aid awarded based on academic merit
- the academic study or achievement in a particular field
scholarship Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
scholarship Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈskɒl.ə.ʃɪp/
US
/ˈskɑː.lɚ.ʃɪp/
scholarship Word Etymology
scholarship = scholar + -ship; scholar (from Latin 'scholaris') means a student or learner, and -ship is a suffix denoting a state or condition. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Picture a dedicated learner surrounded by stacks of books, representing the state of being a scholar. The extension to financial aid connects to the idea of nurturing education for future scholars.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
With a steady breath, I move the chair closer to the window and open the envelope marked scholarship. I place the letter on the table and adjust the light as I read the numbers, careful not to miss a detail. My heart slows, and this grant feels like a warm guide for my study, giving me a sense of clarity and purpose. This small turn in luck nudges my plans toward focus on learning and the work ahead.
Real Context
Scholarship refers to financial aid awarded to a student to help cover education costs, usually based on academic merit or financial need. It can also mean the state of being a scholar or the scholarly study of a field. In everyday English you hear about applying for scholarships, maintaining eligibility, and meeting requirements like essays, transcripts, or recommendations. A memory image for learners is a devoted student surrounded by stacks of books, representing study supported by funding. Learners should distinguish scholarships from fellowships, grants, or loans, and note regional terms like bursaries in some places.
Usage Reminders
- Scholarship is a noun; plural scholarships.
- Common verbs: receive, award, apply for, obtain.
- Differentiate from 'scholar' (a student) and 'scholarly' (academic).
- Often merit-based or need-based; may be program- or institution-specific.
- regional terms exist (e. g., 'bursary' in some places).
Common Misconceptions
- A scholarship equals a degree or admission to a program.
- It covers all expenses, including personal costs.
- Receiving a scholarship guarantees admission or enrollment.
- Scholarships are only for the top students or athletes.
- A scholarship and a grant are the same thing.
Thinking Differences
In English, scholarship often blends two ideas: a funded opportunity and the status of being a serious student. Learners should watch for false friends like 'scholar' (the person) and 'scholarly' (academic style).
Learning Tips
- Compare scholarships with grants and loans to see what each covers.
- Keep track of deadlines and renewal requirements.
- Prepare strong application materials: transcripts, essays, and letters of recommendation.
- Ask about renewal criteria to maintain eligibility.
- Explore smaller, regional scholarships in addition to large national programs.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Which definition best matches the word 'scholarship'?
A.A financial award given to a student to support their education, often based on merit or need.
B.The total cost a student pays for classes each term.
C.A short program or course that lasts a few weeks.
D.An informal conversation between students and teachers.
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'scholarship' correctly?
A.She received a scholarship to study biology at the university.
B.He completed a scholarship in three years.
C.The bookstore offered me a scholarship on textbooks during the sale.
D.The scholarship gave a lecture on ancient history.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'scholarship' (in the sense of financial support for study)?
A.grant
B.tuition
C.certificate
D.loan
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'scholarship' (considering scholarship as financial support that does not need repayment)?
A.loan
B.grant
C.award
D.bursary
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario that shows the meaning of the word without using the word itself?
A.A student borrows money from a bank to pay for college and repays it over time.
B.A university awards a deserving student money to cover part of their tuition based on academic merit.
C.A school gives free meals to all students regardless of grades or financial need.
D.A teenager gets a trophy for participating in a community play.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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