escuela
Mi hija va a una escuela pública en el centro.
My daughter goes to a public school downtown.
An institution for educating children.
La escuela primaria empieza a las ocho y media.
Primary school starts at half past eight.
In some regions, 'escuela' can refer specifically to primary education, while 'colegio' or 'instituto' may refer to secondary education.
A place or activity providing instruction or training in a particular subject.
Tomó clases de pintura en una escuela de arte.
He took painting classes at an art school.
Collocations
Pro Tip
Distinguishing 'escuela' from 'colegio'
In Spain, 'colegio' often implies a private or religious school, while 'escuela' is more neutral. In Latin America, 'escuela' is the standard term for all types of schools.
Word Origin
From Latin *schola*, from Ancient Greek σχολή (skholē, "leisure, philosophy, lecture, discussion"), originally "leisure" as the basis of learning.
Usage Notes
'Escuela' is a general term for school in Spanish, but regional preferences vary: in Spain, 'colegio' often refers to private or primary schools, while 'instituto' refers to secondary schools. In Latin America, 'escuela' is more commonly used for all levels.