B1adjective1K

Educated

UK /["/ˈedʒukeɪtɪd/"]/US /["/ˈedʒukeɪtɪd/"]/

Definition

having had the kind of education mentioned; having been to the school, college or university mentioned

In simple words: Having a good level of knowledge or training.

Examples

  • She is an educated person who understands complex topics.
  • The educated class often influences public policy.
  • He feels that being educated opens up more opportunities in life.
  • They both come from educated backgrounds, which has helped their careers.
  • An educated decision is essential for a successful outcome.
  • Not everyone is educated equally around the world, which leads to disparities.
  • She always aimed to be more educated about cultural differences.
  • The book discusses how an educated populace can drive innovation.

Usage notes

Use 'educated' to describe someone with formal learning, often in professional contexts. It may not fit when describing practical experience or non-formal learning environments.

Grammar pattern

be + educated

Memory hint

Think of 'ed-u-cation' — if you have education, you are 'educated'.

Collocations

  • be
  • seem
  • sound
  • highly
  • very
  • well
  • be
  • seem
  • sound
  • highly
  • very
  • well

Synonyms

  • informed
  • trained
  • knowledgeable
  • cultured
  • learned

Antonyms

  • uneducated
  • ignorant

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'intelligent' — 'educated' refers more to schooling than to raw intelligence.
  • Using 'educated' as a noun instead of an adjective.
  • Assuming 'educated' applies to anyone with any level of schooling, while it often implies a higher degree.