on a course

USAGE SUMMARY

"on a course" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's learning experience, for example, "He is on a course to become an accountant."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For they know they are enrolled on a course that might one day save their lives.

Unicef

"He practiced on a course before.

The New York Times

"But on a course like this, you just can't".

The New York Times

A filmmaker can't change course without being on a course.

The New Yorker

Beat up your wife and go on a course".

The Guardian - Opinion

"I've just been on a course about this," he said.

The Guardian

They will decide on a course of action soon.

The New York Times

We need to continue on a course of deeper reductions.

The New York Times

The Russians are on a course of self-isolation.

The New York Times

The world is set on a course of wild globalisation.

The Guardian

– we are on a course for complete collapse.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on a course" to describe a learning experience, ensure the context clearly indicates the subject or purpose of the course. For instance, specify "on a course in data science" rather than simply "on a course."

Common error

Avoid using "on a course" when referring to a single, isolated event. This phrase typically implies a structured series of sessions or ongoing program, not a one-time workshop or seminar.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a course" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate participation in a learning program or trajectory. As Ludwig AI states, it is a correct and usable phrase. Many examples illustrate its role in describing enrollment or involvement in specific courses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on a course" is a versatile prepositional phrase widely used to denote participation in a learning or training program. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and applicable across diverse contexts, including news, science, and business. While primarily functioning to describe enrollment or involvement, it's important to consider the subtle differences from alternatives like "in a course" and select the phrase that best fits the intended meaning. Remember to specify the course's subject for clarity and avoid using it for isolated events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

enrolled in a program

Focuses specifically on formal educational or training programs.

taking a class

More informal, referring to attending a specific class session or series.

undergoing training

Highlights the process of being trained, usually for a specific purpose or skill.

participating in a workshop

Emphasizes active involvement and hands-on learning in a specific workshop setting.

following a curriculum

Indicates adherence to a structured educational plan.

pursuing a study

Focuses on the academic or research aspect of learning.

engaged in studies

Highlights an active participation in learning activities.

involved in a study

Focuses on being part of a study or learning activity.

undertaking a regimen

Refers to following a prescribed set of activities or treatments, often in a health or fitness context.

headed in a direction

Describes progress towards a specific goal or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "on a course" in a sentence?

You can use "on a course" to describe someone who is studying a particular subject or taking part in a series of lessons. For example, "She is "on a course" to become a certified yoga instructor."

What's the difference between "on a course" and "in a course"?

While both phrases can refer to someone participating in a learning program, "on a course" often implies a journey or progression through a set of learning activities, while "in a course" simply indicates enrollment or participation. Therefore both phrases are interchangeable, but pay attention to the context.

What can I say instead of "on a course"?

You can use alternatives like "enrolled in a program", "taking a class", or "undergoing training" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "embark on a course"?

Yes, "embark on a course" is a correct and commonly used phrase. It implies starting a journey or undertaking a structured program of learning or action.