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training
/ˈtreɪnɪŋ/
structured learning to improve skills
She completed six months of rigorous training to become a certified yoga instructor.
She finished a half-year program of deliberate practice to qualify as a yoga teacher.
general
The action of teaching a person or animal a particular skill or type of behavior.
The company offers on-the-job training for new employees.
New hires receive practical instruction while working.
Military training prepares soldiers for combat.
Soldiers undergo exercises to develop combat readiness.
Often implies systematic instruction over time, not single lessons.
formal
The preparation or education required for a particular profession or activity.
Medical training typically lasts 7–10 years.
Becoming a doctor requires several years of specialized education.
Used in professional contexts to denote qualification pathways.
Engineering
technical
The process of making something ready for use or operation.
The new software requires two weeks of user training.
Users need two weeks to learn how to operate the new system.
Common in IT and machinery contexts.
Collocations
on-the-job trainingpractical instruction while workingvocational trainingeducation focused on a specific trademilitary trainingexercises to prepare soldierssafety traininginstruction on avoiding hazards
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Collocation Mastery
Pair 'training' with specific contexts: 'leadership training,' 'firearms training,' or 'customer service training' to sound natural. Avoid vague phrases like 'good training'—specify the type.
Gold Rule
Active vs. Passive
Training requires effort from the learner. 'She received training' is correct, but 'She got training' is informal. Prefer 'She underwent training' for formal contexts.
Duration Implication
Training suggests a process over time. For single events, use 'session' or 'workshop' (e.g., 'a training session on cybersecurity').
Word Origin
From Middle English *trainen* (to pull, draw), from Old French *trainer* (to drag), ultimately from Latin *trahere* (to pull). The sense of 'instruction' emerged in the 16th century, influenced by the idea of 'drawing' knowledge into a person.
Usage Notes
Training implies active participation and repetition, unlike passive 'education.' It can refer to physical (e.g., sports) or mental (e.g., corporate) development. Avoid confusing with 'exercise' (physical activity) or 'teaching' (general instruction).
Word Breakdown
train
to teach or learn a skill
root-ing
forms a gerund/noun indicating the action
suffixEnglish Dictionary