C1adjectiveformal5K

Institutional

UK /["/ˌɪnstɪˈtjuːʃənl/"]/US /["/ˌɪnstɪˈtuːʃənl/"]/

Definition

connected with a large important organization, for example a university or bank

In simple words: Related to an organization or system, especially large ones like schools or governments.

Examples

institutional investors
institutional care
The hotel rooms are rather drab and institutional.
institutional racism

Usage notes

Used in formal contexts, such as discussions about education, healthcare, or policy. Avoid using in casual settings where simpler words suffice.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'institution' plus 'al' - it describes anything related to big organizations.

Collocations

institutional framework
institutional policy
institutional support
institutional environment

Synonyms

organizational
systemic
corporate
structural
formal

Antonyms

individual
personal

Common mistakes

Confused with 'institution' as a noun, forgetting it’s an adjective.
Mispronunciation, particularly with the third syllable.
Using it in informal conversations where simpler terms would be better.