Another Word for Learn: 15 Synonyms with Examples
To learn is to gain knowledge or skill, or to find something out. Alternatives separate studying on purpose from simply discovering a fact.
As a verb: gain knowledge or skill
- study
- master
- pick up
- acquire
- absorb
- train in
As a verb: find out
- discover
- find out
- hear
- realise
- gather
- establish
As a verb: commit to memory
- memorise
- learn by heart
- commit to memory
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- study
- Learns deliberately, usually over a period, often formally.
- master
- Learns completely, to a high level.
- pick up
- Informal; learns casually, without formal study.
- acquire
- Formal; gains a skill or knowledge over time.
- discover
- Finds out something that was unknown.
- memorise
- Learns exactly, word for word.
Example sentences
- study: She studied Spanish for two years before moving to Madrid.
- master: It takes months to master the basic strokes.
- pick up: He picked up a little Greek while working on the island.
- acquire: Apprentices acquire practical skills on the job.
- discover: We discovered that the hall had been double-booked.
- memorise: Actors memorised their lines over the holidays.
Opposite of learn
- forget
- unlearn
- overlook
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “learn”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: see, con, read, take
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “learn”?
The most useful alternatives are “study”, “master”, “pick up”, “acquire”, “absorb”. For the main sense (gain knowledge or skill), “study” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “study” and “master”?
study: Learns deliberately, usually over a period, often formally. master: Learns completely, to a high level.
What is the opposite of “learn”?
Common antonyms are “forget”, “unlearn”, “overlook”.