university of life: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘university of life’ mean?

The idiom "university of life" refers to the real-world experiences and lessons one gains outside of formal education. It suggests that these experiences can be just as valuable, if not more, in shaping a person's knowledge and understanding of the world.

Idiom Explorer

Journey to Wisdom

An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning, often distinct from the literal interpretation of the words themselves. The idiom "university of life" is used to describe the concept of life as a continual learning experience. It suggests that life itself is a profound and comprehensive institution, providing lessons and insights that are comparable to those obtained through formal education.

The origin of the idiom "university of life" is uncertain, but it is believed to be a metaphorical phrase that emerged from the idea that life is an ongoing learning process. Throughout life, individuals have the opportunity to acquire knowledge, wisdom, and understanding through the challenges, experiences, and opportunities they encounter.

The usage of the idiom "university of life" is particularly prevalent in discussions related to personal development and the value of practical experience. It emphasizes the importance of real-life lessons and the growth that can be achieved through firsthand encounters and challenges.

By embracing the concept of the "university of life," individuals are encouraged to approach their experiences with an open mind, viewing every situation as an opportunity to learn and grow. This idiom conveys the idea that life itself offers a wealth of educational resources.

Navigating university life is a whole new ball game.

The idiom "university of life" is often related to the idiom "university of the streets." Both idioms highlight the idea that formal education is not the sole source of knowledge. The "university of the streets" refers to the concept of learning through real-life experiences, particularly in urban and street settings. It emphasizes the value of street smarts and practical knowledge gained outside of traditional institutions.

The idiom "school of hard knocks" is also related to the concept of the "university of life." It refers to the idea that life's difficulties and hardships serve as a form of education. The "school of hard knocks" emphasizes the learning and growth that occur through overcoming challenges and adversity.

The idiom "a life of its own" is relevant to the notion of the "university of life" as well. It suggests that life has its independent existence and its own set of lessons and experiences. It highlights the idea that life unfolds and presents opportunities for growth, independent of human control.

Furthermore, the idiom "outside world" can be connected to the concept of the "university of life." It is often used to describe the experiences and challenges that exist beyond the confines of familiar environments or comfort zones. The "outside world" refers to the idea that there is a larger context in which individuals must navigate and learn from.

Lastly, the idiom "in the world" is related to the "university of life" as it conveys the idea of living, experiencing, and learning within the broader scope of human existence. It emphasizes the notion that life is a shared journey, with opportunities for growth and learning available to all individuals.

The idiom "university of life" encapsulates the belief that life is a continuous learning journey. It emphasizes the notion that individuals can gain knowledge, understanding, and wisdom through the challenges and opportunities they encounter. While its origin is uncertain, the idiom is commonly used to emphasize the importance of experiential learning and the value of real-life lessons. By embracing this concept, individuals are encouraged to approach their everyday experiences with a mindset of curiosity and openness, recognizing the potential for growth and enrichment that exists within the complexities of life. The idiom "university of life" serves as a reminder that education is not limited to the confines of a classroom but can be found in the vast array of experiences that shape our existence.

Example usage

1. Growing up in a small town without much opportunity for education, he learned everything he knows from the university of life.

2. She never finished high school, but her experiences working various jobs have been her own university of life.

3. After his failed business venture, he decided to take a break from formal education and join the university of life to gain real-world experience.

More "Education" idioms