Definition of Academy
Quick Meaning of Academy
A type of school or training center where people learn specific skills or subjects. It is more specialized than a regular school.
Detailed Definition of Academy
A school, college, or institution that provides specialized education or training in a particular subject or skill.
How to Pronounce Academy
Stress pattern: oOoo (4-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: uh-KAD-uh-mee. The 'a' sound in the first syllable is unstressed (schwa sound).
Watch out: Some learners stress the first or third syllable. Correct: uh-KAD-uh-mee (second syllable stressed).
Origin and Etymology of Academy
From Greek 'akademeia' (the garden where Plato taught). Named after Akademus, a legendary Athenian hero. The word originally referred to Plato's school, then generalized to any institution of higher learning.
How to Use Academy in a Sentence
Each example shows “academy” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“She studied music at a prestigious academy in London.”
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“The military academy trains soldiers in leadership and tactics.”
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“He attended an art academy before becoming a professional painter.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Academy
Common Synonyms for Academy
Smart Synonyms for Academy — When to Use Each
- school
- General term; less specialized than academy
- institute
- Formal and technical; for specialized research
- conservatory
- Specifically for music or arts training
Common Collocations with Academy
These phrases pair with “academy” in everyday English:
- military academy
- art academy
- film academy
- academy of sciences
- royal academy
Common Mistakes When Using Academy
Even fluent speakers slip up with “academy”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He goes to academy every day.
- ✓ Correct: He goes to the academy every day.
- Why: Use the definite article 'the' before 'academy' when referring to a specific institution.
- ✗ Wrong: The academies is located near the city center.
- ✓ Correct: The academy is located near the city center.
- Why: 'Academy' is singular. Use 'academies' for plural. 'Is' agrees with singular 'academy'.
- ✗ Wrong: She studied in the academy of music for three years.
- ✓ Correct: She studied at the academy of music for three years.
- Why: Use 'at' not 'in' when referring to attending an academy or institution.
Other Forms of Academy
Frequently Asked Questions About Academy
What is the meaning of "Academy"?
A type of school or training center where people learn specific skills or subjects. It is more specialized than a regular school.
How do you pronounce "Academy"?
The IPA is /əˈkædəmi/. Stress the second syllable: uh-KAD-uh-mee. The 'a' sound in the first syllable is unstressed (schwa sound).
What part of speech is "Academy"?
"Academy" is a noun at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Academy"?
Common synonyms include school, college, institute.
How do you use "Academy" in a sentence?
For example: "She studied music at a prestigious academy in London."