What does learning mean?
Learning is the process by which people acquire knowledge, understanding, skills, or useful insights. It can occur through formal education, but it also happens through experience, observation, practice, reflection, and interaction with others. The word often suggests a sustained process rather than a single moment of discovery, which is why expressions such as “learning curve” and “lifelong learning” emphasize the difficulties, development, and continuing nature of education. In its second sense, learning can refer to the knowledge or skills acquired through this process, as in a statement about the value of practical learning. It is also used attributively in terms such as “learning environment,” “learning disability,” and “learning resources.” Because the concept includes both intellectual study and the development of practical ability, learning is broader than formal education and is not restricted to classroom instruction. The word remains common in both British and American English.
nounThe process of acquiring knowledge, understanding, or skills through study, experience, or instruction. It can also refer to the knowledge or skills acquired through this process.
- The process of acquiring knowledge, understanding, or skills through study, experience, or instruction.
- Knowledge, understanding, or skills acquired through this process.
- A specific lesson, insight, or principle learned from experience, especially in the plural form “learnings.”
"Learning a new language requires patience, practice, and regular exposure to the language."
"Children learn best when they are given opportunities to explore and ask questions."
"The team's ability to solve difficult problems was one of its most valuable learning experiences."
The plural is uncommon and normally means separate insights, lessons, or principles gained through experience.
"The project yielded several valuable learnings about managing a complex team."
Every expertise began as learning, and every expert once knew the difference between confusion and discovery.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How learning is actually used
“Learning” is usually uncountable when referring to the general process or activity. The plural “learnings” is uncommon and usually means distinct lessons, insights, or principles gained from experience.
Easily confused with learning
Learning is the process of acquiring knowledge, whereas lore is knowledge or traditional stories acquired over time.
Learning is the broader process of acquiring knowledge or skills, while training is more specifically instruction designed to develop practical abilities.