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postdoctoral

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //ˌpoʊstˈdɒktərəl//

KK: /ˌpoʊstˈdɒktərəl/

adjective
Definition

Relating to academic work or study that takes place after earning a doctoral degree.


Example

She is currently in a postdoctoral position at the university, focusing on her research.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about her new postdoctoral position at the university?
Sloth B
Yeah, I read about it! That sounds like an amazing opportunity.
Sloth A
I know, right? It's impressive how she's advancing her research after her PhD.
Sloth B
Absolutely! A postdoctoral role really shows her dedication to her field.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
advanced
scholarly
graduate
Antonyms
undergraduate
basic
elementary
Root Explanation

Postdoctoral → It is formed from "post-" (meaning after) and "doctor" (from Latin "docere", meaning to teach). The word refers to the period of academic work or research that occurs after obtaining a doctoral degree, emphasizing the continuation of education and research after becoming a doctor.

Memory Tip

Think of 'post-' meaning 'after' and 'doctor' relating to someone who teaches or has a doctorate. This helps you remember that 'postdoctoral' refers to work done after earning a doctorate.

Visually Confused Words
doctoral
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