Another Word for Study: 16 Synonyms with Examples
As a verb, study means to learn about something or to look at it closely; as a noun, it is a piece of research or a room for work. The right alternative depends on which sense you mean.
As a verb: learn about a subject
As a verb: look at closely
- examine
- analyse
- investigate
- scrutinise
- survey
- research
As a noun: a piece of research
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.
- learn
- Focuses on gaining knowledge rather than the activity of studying.
- revise
- British: studies again before an exam.
- examine
- Looks closely at a particular thing rather than a whole subject.
- investigate
- Tries to find out causes or facts.
- survey
- As a noun, research that gathers responses from many people.
- paper
- A written study, usually published in a journal.
Example sentences
- learn: Pupils learn about the water cycle in Year 4.
- revise: He revised for his exams in the library every afternoon.
- examine: The researcher examined the letters for clues about the author.
- investigate: The team investigated why some patients missed appointments.
- survey: A national survey found that most people read on their phones.
- paper: Her paper on river pollution was cited widely.
Opposite of study
- ignore
- neglect
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “study”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: analyze, canvass, consider, take
noun: work, report
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “study”?
The most useful alternatives are “learn”, “read”, “revise”, “train”, “be taught”. For the main sense (learn about a subject), “learn” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “learn” and “revise”?
learn: Focuses on gaining knowledge rather than the activity of studying. revise: British: studies again before an exam.
What is the opposite of “study”?
Common antonyms are “ignore”, “neglect”.