tutor - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
tutor Word Meanings
- a person who teaches or guides others
- to teach or instruct someone
- a private teacher.
tutor Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
tutor Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtjuːtə/
US
/ˈtuːtər/
tutor Word Etymology
From Latin 'tutor' (guardian, protector), from 'tueor' (to see, to watch over). Imagine a caring figure watching over a student’s progress, always ready to guide and help.
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
A tutor is someone who teaches or guides others, often in a one-on-one setting, to help a student learn more effectively. The noun tutor refers to a person who provides instruction and support in a subject area, while the verb to tutor someone means to teach or instruct them directly. In common use, a tutor can be a private teacher, a college tutor, or a mentor who helps with study strategies, homework, or exam preparation. The etymology comes from Latin tutor meaning guardian or protector, from tueor meaning to watch over. Think of a tutor as a caring, attentive guide who adapts to a learner’s pace and challenges, offering feedback, encouragement, and practical practice.
Usage Reminders
- - Tutor can be a person or the act of teaching someone.
- - Often implies one-on-one guidance rather than a classroom lecture.
- - Distinguish tutor from teacher; a tutor focuses on progress and practice.
- - Common collocations: tutor in [subject], tutor for exam prep, private tutor.
- - The noun is 'tutor', the past tense of the verb is 'tutored'.
Common Misconceptions
- A tutor is only for students who struggle grades.
- Tutors must be professionals with teaching credentials.
- Tutoring always means test-prep coaching.
- All tutoring is paid; there are no volunteer tutors.
- A tutor and a teacher are always the same thing.
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate tutor from other roles like teacher or coach, emphasizing individualized guidance and progression tracking. Learners often confuse tutoring with classroom teaching or assume tutors only help with exams.
Learning Tips
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5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'tutor'?
A.Teaching assistant
B.Student
C.Instructor
D.Customer
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'tutor' correctly?
A.The tutor was struggling with the homework.
B.The tutor helped the student understand the lesson.
C.The tutor passed the test with flying colors.
D.I hired a tutor to fix my car.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'tutor'?
A.Mentor
B.Child
C.Chef
D.Athlete
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite (antonym) for 'tutor'?
A.Trainee
B.Parent
C.Guide
D.Pupil
Step 5: Mastery
How can you apply the concept of 'tutor' in real life?
A.Playing a musical instrument
B.Teaching someone a new skill
C.Solving a complex math problem
D.Cooking a gourmet meal
Related Listening
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