What is the difference between truant and dropout?

Definitions

truant

- Describing a student who is absent from school without permission or a valid reason.

- Referring to someone who habitually avoids or shirks their responsibilities or duties.

- Talking about a person who is idle or lazy and does not engage in productive activities.

dropout

- Referring to a student who leaves school before completing their education.

- Describing someone who quits or abandons a course of action or pursuit.

- Talking about a person who fails to meet expectations or fulfill obligations.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both words describe a lack of engagement or participation.
• 2. Both words can refer to students or young people.
• 3. Both words have negative connotations.
• 4. Both words imply a failure to meet expectations or fulfill obligations.
• 5. Both words can have long-term consequences for one's future.

What is the difference?

• 1. Timing: Truant refers to someone who is currently absent or avoiding responsibilities, while dropout refers to someone who has already left or quit.
• 2. Education: Truant specifically relates to school attendance, while dropout refers to leaving school before completing one's education.
• 3. Frequency: Truant implies occasional or intermittent absences, while dropout suggests a permanent departure or abandonment.
• 4. Consequences: Truant may result in disciplinary action or academic consequences, while dropout can have long-term effects on one's career prospects and earning potential.
• 5. Attitude: Truant suggests a lack of motivation or discipline, while dropout may indicate a lack of interest or commitment.

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Remember this!

Truant and dropout are both negative terms that describe a lack of engagement or participation. However, the difference between them lies in their timing, education, frequency, consequences, and attitude. Truant refers to someone who is currently absent or avoiding responsibilities, specifically related to school attendance, while dropout refers to someone who has already left school before completing their education, suggesting a permanent departure or abandonment.