grammar school

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grammar school" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to refer to a type of school that specializes in teaching English grammar. For example: "When I was growing up, I attended a grammar school where I learned the fundamentals of the English language."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

The county has several independent schools such as Bolton School, Bury Grammar School, Manchester Grammar School, Oldham Hulme Grammar School, St Bede's College and Stockport Grammar School.

Wikipedia

Compare grammar school; public school.

Encyclopedia Britannica

grammar school accent".

The Guardian - Books

Grammar school, suggested Pam.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Intercede in the grammar school?

The New York Times

I went to a grammar school.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

However, all four were grammar-school boys.

The Guardian

After the war, Himmler completed his grammar-school education.

Wikipedia

Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, Lancaster Girls Grammarr school and Altrincham Grammar School for Boys in Trafford were also seeking permission from the DfE.

The Guardian

Although still open these schools have since changed their names to Altrincham Grammar School for Girls, Altrincham Grammar School for Boys, and Loreto Grammar School.

Wikipedia

1948 Wins scholarship to Bradford Grammar School.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about education in the UK, use "grammar school" to specifically denote a state-funded secondary school that selects pupils based on academic ability. Using it in other contexts can be misleading.

Common error

Avoid using "grammar school" generically to refer to any secondary school, especially outside the UK, as it has specific connotations related to selective admission and a traditional academic focus. In the US, for example, it might incorrectly suggest an elementary school focused on grammar.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grammar school" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying a specific type of secondary school, particularly in the UK, that selects students based on academic ability. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grammar school" correctly refers to a specific type of selective secondary school, primarily in the UK, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its usage is common in contexts such as news reporting, encyclopedic descriptions, and personal anecdotes. While grammatically sound, it's essential to recognize its specific cultural connotation to avoid misinterpretations. Related phrases like "selective secondary school" can be useful alternatives depending on the audience and context. When using the phrase "grammar school", be mindful of its specific connotations related to selective admission and a traditional academic focus. In summary, while "grammar school" is a perfectly acceptable and frequently used term, writers should be aware of its specific regional and historical implications to ensure clarity and precision in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

selective secondary school

Focuses on the selective nature of the school, emphasizing its admission criteria.

academic high school

Highlights the academic focus of the school, suitable for American English.

college preparatory school

Emphasizes the school's role in preparing students for higher education.

secondary school with selective admission

A more descriptive phrase that clarifies the school's admission process.

elite state school

Focuses on the high standards and public funding of the institution.

selective public school

Highlights that school is public and that its admission process is based on selective criteria.

state-funded selective school

Highlights the public funding and selective admissions process.

academically oriented secondary institution

A more formal and descriptive way to characterize a grammar school.

traditional academic school

Highlights the traditional focus on rigorous academic curricula.

high-achieving secondary school

Focuses on the academic achievements of the students.

FAQs

What is the main characteristic of a "grammar school"?

A "grammar school" is characterized by its selective admission process based on academic ability, offering a traditional, academically focused education, primarily in the UK.

How does a "grammar school" differ from a comprehensive school?

Unlike comprehensive schools, which admit students of all abilities, a "grammar school" selects students based on academic criteria, typically through an entrance exam.

Is "grammar school" the same as a private school?

No, a "grammar school" is a state-funded school, while private schools, also known as independent schools, charge tuition fees and are not funded by the government.

What are some alternatives to "grammar school" when discussing academically focused schools?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "selective secondary school" or "academic high school", which may be more appropriate in different regions or when avoiding the specific UK connotation.