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Dropout

UK //ˈdrɒp.aʊt// US //ˈdrɑːp.aʊt// Pronunciation

Definition

A person who leaves school or college before completing their education.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A student who leaves school before finishing.

Examples

• Many students are dropouts because of financial issues.
• She was a high school dropout who later became very successful.
• The program aims to reduce the number of college dropouts each year.
• As a dropout, he faced many challenges finding work.
• Some view being a dropout as a failure, while others see it as a choice.

Usage notes

Use 'dropout' in educational contexts; avoid informal settings or when discussing successful transitions.

Grammar pattern

noun + (of + object)

Memory hint

Think of someone dropping out of a school bus - they don't finish the ride.

Collocations

• high school dropout
• college dropout
• dropout rates
• education dropout
• status of dropout

Synonyms

• leaver
• deserter
• failure
• withdrawn student
• non-completer

Common mistakes

• Confusing 'dropout' with 'drop off' (to leave someone somewhere)
• Using 'dropout' incorrectly as a verb
• Misunderstanding 'dropout' solely as failure without considering context