What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
school
Example
I have to go to school every weekday. [school: noun]
Example
She is a school teacher and loves working with kids. [school: adjective]
university
Example
He graduated from the university with a degree in engineering. [university: noun]
Example
The university professor was very knowledgeable and engaging. [university: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
School is more commonly used than university in everyday language since it covers a wider range of educational contexts. University is more specific and is used primarily in higher education settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between school and university?
University is generally considered more formal than school since it is associated with higher education and specialized fields of study. However, both words can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation.