school - university

◊ used as count nouns

In both British and American English, a school is a place where children are educated, and a university is a place where students study for degrees.

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◊ used as uncount nouns

In American English, school (without `a' or `the') is used to refer to both schools and universities. If someone is attending a school or university, Americans say that they are in school.

All the children were in school.

She is doing well in school.

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In British English, school refers only to schools. If someone is attending a school, British speakers say they are at school. If they are attending a university, British speakers say they are at university.

I was at school with her.

What do you want to do when you leave school?

Her one aim in life is to go to university.

See also entry at ↑ student.

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