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
The idiom "wise beyond one's years" is used to describe someone who displays a level of wisdom and maturity that is beyond what is expected for their age.
An idiom meaning a person has gained knowledge and experience through real-life situations and adversity, rather than formal education.
The idiom "time of one's life" refers to a period or experience of great enjoyment or excitement. It implies that someone is having a fantastic and memorable time, often in a specific event or activity.
The idiom "the world over" means something is true or exists everywhere in the world, without any exceptions. It emphasizes the universal nature or global scope of a particular phenomenon or situation.
The idiom "school of hard knocks" refers to the difficult or challenging experiences in life that teach someone valuable lessons, typically outside of traditional educational institutions.
The idiom "road less traveled" means choosing an unconventional path or taking a less popular route, often in life or decision-making, different from the majority or mainstream choices.
The idiom "personal capital" refers to the value and worth that a person has in terms of their skills, experiences, relationships, and reputation. It encompasses the intangible assets that contribute to an individual's success and influence in various aspects of life.
The idiom "outside world" refers to the world beyond a specific place or situation. It represents a realm that is different or separate from one's immediate surroundings. It is often used to emphasize the contrast between one's current situation and the larger world or society.
The idiom "man in the street" refers to an ordinary person or a typical member of the general public, with no specific expertise or knowledge in a particular field.
The idiom "live the dream" means to experience and enjoy a lifestyle or situation that is ideal or extraordinary, often associated with achieving one's goals or desires.
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.
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.