coursework use in a sentence

Coursework vs Course: When To Use Each One In Writing?

Looking at discussing educational programs, it’s important to understand the distinction between coursework and course. While the two terms are often used interchangeably, they actually have different meanings and contexts.

In simple terms, coursework refers to the assignments, projects, and activities that students are required to complete as part of a specific course or program of study. It encompasses all the tasks and assessments that contribute to a student’s final grade. On the other hand, a course is a broader term that refers to the overall educational program or subject of study. It includes the content, curriculum, and instructional materials that are used to teach a particular topic or discipline.

With these definitions in mind, it becomes clear that coursework is a subset of a course. While a course provides the framework and structure for learning, coursework is the practical application and demonstration of knowledge and skills acquired during the course. In other words, coursework is the hands-on component that allows students to apply theoretical concepts and showcase their understanding of the subject matter.

Now that we have established the distinction between coursework and course, let’s explore the importance of each in the learning process and how they complement each other to provide a comprehensive educational experience.

Exploring The Definitions

In order to fully understand the differences between coursework and a course, it is essential to first establish clear definitions for each term. Let us delve into the intricacies of these terms and gain a comprehensive understanding of their meanings.

Define Coursework

Coursework, in the realm of education, refers to a set of academic tasks or assignments that students are required to complete as part of a specific course. These tasks are designed to assess the students’ understanding and application of the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course. Coursework encompasses a wide range of activities, including essays, research papers, presentations, laboratory experiments, and even practical assessments.

Coursework acts as a vital component of the overall assessment process, allowing educators to evaluate students’ comprehension, critical thinking abilities, and their ability to apply theoretical concepts in practical scenarios. It serves as a means to gauge the students’ progress and proficiency in a particular subject or discipline.

It is worth noting that coursework often carries a significant weightage in the final grading of a course, making it imperative for students to dedicate ample time and effort to complete these assignments in a meticulous and scholarly manner.

Define Course

A course, on the other hand, refers to a structured educational program or module offered by an educational institution or organization. Courses are designed to provide students with a structured learning experience focused on a specific subject or area of study. They are typically led by qualified instructors or professors who guide students through the curriculum and facilitate the acquisition of knowledge and skills.

Courses can vary in duration, ranging from a few weeks to an entire academic year, depending on the level of complexity and depth of the subject matter. They may be offered in various formats, including in-person classes, online modules, or a combination of both, commonly known as blended learning.

Each course is carefully curated to cover a specific set of topics, theories, and practical applications relevant to the subject. The course outline typically includes learning objectives, a breakdown of topics or modules, recommended readings, and assessments, such as coursework, quizzes, and examinations.

It is important to recognize that a course provides students with a structured framework to acquire knowledge and skills, whereas coursework represents the tangible tasks and assessments that students must complete within the course to demonstrate their understanding and mastery of the subject matter.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

In order to effectively communicate your ideas, it is crucial to understand how to use the words “coursework” and “course” appropriately in a sentence. This section will provide guidance on the correct usage of these terms, ensuring clarity and precision in your writing.

How To Use coursework In A Sentence

When incorporating the term “coursework” into your sentence, it is important to remember that it refers to the academic assignments, projects, or tasks that students are required to complete as part of a specific course. Here are some examples of how to use “coursework” correctly:

• After attending the lecture, students were assigned a significant amount of coursework to complete before the end of the semester.
• She diligently worked on her coursework throughout the week, ensuring each assignment was thoroughly researched and well-written.
• The professor emphasized the importance of submitting coursework on time to maintain a good academic standing.

By using “coursework” in these sentences, we clearly convey that the tasks being discussed are specific to a particular course or academic program.

How To Use course In A Sentence

Unlike “coursework,” the term “course” refers to a specific unit of study or a series of educational lessons. It can also indicate the path or direction one takes in their academic or professional journey. Here are some examples of how to properly use “course” in a sentence:

• He enrolled in an advanced mathematics course to further enhance his problem-solving skills.
• After completing the introductory course , she decided to pursue a more specialized field of study.
• The university offers a wide range of courses in various disciplines, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific interests.

By using “course” correctly in these sentences, we convey the idea of a specific subject or area of study, highlighting the individual’s educational journey or the offerings provided by an institution.

More Examples Of Coursework & Course Used In Sentences

As we delve deeper into the comparison between coursework and course, it is essential to understand how these terms are used in practical contexts. By examining various sentences, we can gain a clearer understanding of their usage and nuances.

Examples Of Using Coursework In A Sentence

• The demanding coursework in the advanced mathematics program challenged the students’ problem-solving skills.
• Completing the coursework for the computer science degree required extensive coding knowledge and analytical thinking.
• Her impeccable time management allowed her to excel in her coursework while participating in extracurricular activities.
• The professor assigned a research paper as part of the coursework to assess the students’ ability to conduct independent investigations.
• Online platforms offer a wide range of coursework options, allowing individuals to enhance their skills from the comfort of their homes.

Examples Of Using Course In A Sentence

• As an elective, I decided to take a course on art history to broaden my understanding of different artistic movements.
• The university offers a comprehensive course on entrepreneurship, providing students with the necessary knowledge to start their own businesses.
• She enrolled in a language course to improve her fluency in Spanish before her upcoming trip to South America.
• The course on environmental sustainability emphasized the importance of conserving natural resources for future generations.
• The professor’s engaging teaching style made the course on psychology captivating and enjoyable for the students.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to discussing academic studies, it is essential to use the correct terminology to convey your ideas accurately. Unfortunately, many people often confuse the terms “coursework” and “course” and use them interchangeably, which can lead to confusion and miscommunication. In this section, we will highlight some common mistakes people make when using these terms incorrectly, along with explanations of why they are incorrect.

Mistake 1: Using “Course” When Referring To “Coursework”

One of the most prevalent mistakes is using the term “course” when actually referring to “coursework.” While both words are related to academic studies, they have distinct meanings and should not be used interchangeably.

A course refers to a specific educational program or subject of study offered by an educational institution. It encompasses a set of lectures, assignments, and examinations that students undertake to gain knowledge and skills in a particular field. For example, a university may offer courses in mathematics, literature, or biology.

On the other hand, coursework refers to the individual assignments, projects, or tasks that students are required to complete as part of a course. It includes activities such as essays, research papers, presentations, or laboratory experiments. Coursework contributes to the overall assessment and evaluation of a student’s performance in a specific course.

Using “course” instead of “coursework” can lead to confusion because it fails to distinguish between the broader educational program and the specific tasks or assignments within that program.

Mistake 2: Using “Coursework” When Referring To “Course”

Conversely, another common mistake is using the term “coursework” to refer to a “course.” While this error may seem less common, it is still important to understand the distinction between the two terms.

As mentioned earlier, a course represents a comprehensive educational program that encompasses various components such as lectures, readings, assignments, and assessments. It provides a structured learning experience for students to gain knowledge and skills in a specific field of study.

However, coursework specifically refers to the individual tasks, assignments, or projects that students complete as part of their course. It is the practical application of the knowledge and concepts learned during the course. Coursework allows students to demonstrate their understanding, critical thinking abilities, and mastery of the subject matter.

Using “coursework” instead of “course” can lead to confusion because it narrows down the discussion to the specific assignments and tasks, disregarding the broader educational program and its various components.

Mistake 3: Failing To Recognize The Different Contexts

Another common mistake is failing to recognize the different contexts in which “course” and “coursework” are used. Each term has its own appropriate usage depending on the context.

When discussing academic programs, it is more appropriate to use the term “course” to refer to the overall educational program or subject of study. For example, you would say, “I am taking a course in literature this semester.”

On the other hand, when focusing on the individual tasks or assignments within a course, it is correct to use the term “coursework.” For instance, you would say, “I have a lot of coursework to complete for my literature course.”

Recognizing and using the appropriate term based on the context not only demonstrates your understanding of the academic environment but also ensures effective communication with others.

Mistake 4: Neglecting The Importance Of Precision

Lastly, a common mistake is neglecting the importance of precision when using “course” and “coursework.” Using the correct terminology not only showcases your knowledge and expertise but also enhances clarity and understanding in academic discussions.

By avoiding the interchangeable use of “course” and “coursework,” you can convey your ideas more accurately and avoid potential misunderstandings. Remember, precision in language is crucial, especially in academic and professional settings.

It is crucial to avoid common mistakes when using “coursework” and “course” interchangeably. By understanding the distinctions between these terms and using them appropriately, you can effectively communicate your ideas and contribute to a more precise and meaningful academic discourse.

Context Matters

When it comes to discussing education and learning, the choice between the terms “coursework” and “course” can greatly depend on the context in which they are used. Both words have distinct meanings and nuances that can influence their usage. Understanding these differences is essential for effective communication in various educational and professional settings.

The term “coursework” typically refers to the assignments, projects, and assessments that students complete as part of a specific course or program of study. It encompasses the practical and theoretical work that students undertake to demonstrate their understanding and mastery of the subject matter. Coursework often involves research, writing papers, participating in group projects, and taking exams.

For instance, in an undergraduate psychology program, coursework might involve conducting experiments, analyzing data, and writing research papers to apply theoretical concepts. In this context, the term “coursework” emphasizes the practical application of knowledge and the development of critical thinking skills.

On the other hand, the term “course” typically refers to the broader educational experience that includes lectures, discussions, and other learning activities. It encompasses the entire curriculum and structure of a subject or program. A course may consist of multiple modules or units, each covering different topics or themes.

For example, in a business administration program, a course might include lectures on finance, marketing, and organizational behavior. Students would attend these lectures, engage in class discussions, and complete assignments related to the topics covered. In this context, the term “course” emphasizes the overall structure and content of the educational program.

Contextual Examples

The choice between “coursework” and “course” can vary depending on the specific context in which they are used. Here are a few examples:

• Academic Setting: In an academic setting, such as a university or college, the term “coursework” is commonly used to refer to the assignments and assessments that students complete as part of their studies. On the other hand, the term “course” is used to describe the overall educational experience, including lectures, discussions, and assignments.
• Professional Training: In a professional training program, such as a workshop or seminar, the term “course” is often used to describe the entire learning experience. It includes both the theoretical content and any practical exercises or assessments. The term “coursework” may be less commonly used in this context.
• Online Learning: In the context of online learning platforms or e-learning courses, both “coursework” and “course” can be used interchangeably. However, “course” is more commonly used to describe the overall program, while “coursework” may refer specifically to the assignments and assessments completed within that program.

It is important to consider the context in which these terms are used to ensure clear and effective communication. Whether you are a student, educator, or professional, understanding the nuances of these terms can help you navigate the educational landscape with confidence.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the usage of the terms “coursework” and “course” generally follows specific rules, there are a few exceptions where these rules may not apply. These exceptions are important to understand in order to use these terms accurately and effectively. Let’s explore a few key exceptions and provide brief explanations and examples for each case.

1. Technical Courses

In technical fields, such as engineering or computer science, the term “course” is often used to refer to a specific subject or topic within a broader curriculum. In this context, “coursework” may not be used as frequently or in the same way. For example, a student studying mechanical engineering may refer to their individual subjects as “courses,” such as “Fluid Mechanics course” or “Thermodynamics course.” In this case, the term “coursework” would not be commonly used to describe the specific assignments or projects related to these subjects.

2. Professional Development

When it comes to professional development or continuing education, the term “course” is often used to describe a specific program or training opportunity. In these contexts, the term “coursework” may not be applicable at all. For instance, a professional seeking to enhance their leadership skills may enroll in a “Leadership Development course” rather than “Leadership Development coursework.” Here, the focus is on the overall program or training experience rather than the individual assignments or assessments.

3. Informal Learning

Informal learning settings, such as workshops or seminars, may also deviate from the traditional use of “coursework” and “course.” In these situations, the term “course” is often used to refer to a specific session or event, rather than a comprehensive curriculum. For example, a photography enthusiast attending a workshop on portrait photography may refer to it as a “Portrait Photography course” even though it may not involve the typical structure or assessments associated with formal coursework. In this case, the term “coursework” would not be applicable as the focus is primarily on the practical learning experience.

4. Academic Jargon

Within academic circles, particularly in specialized fields, there may be specific jargon or terminology that deviates from the general usage of “coursework” and “course.” For instance, in certain scientific disciplines, researchers may refer to their research projects or experiments as “courses” rather than “coursework.” This usage is specific to the context of their field and may not align with the conventional understanding of the terms. It is essential to be aware of such discipline-specific variations to communicate effectively within these academic communities.

Understanding these exceptions to the rules surrounding the usage of “coursework” and “course” allows for more precise and accurate communication in various contexts. By recognizing when these exceptions apply, individuals can effectively navigate conversations and written work within their specific fields or areas of interest.

After examining the key differences between coursework and course, it is evident that these terms have distinct meanings and applications within the realm of education. Coursework refers to the specific assignments, projects, and assessments that students complete as part of a course, while a course encompasses the broader curriculum and instructional content provided by an educational institution or instructor.

While coursework focuses on the practical application and demonstration of knowledge and skills, a course encompasses a comprehensive learning experience that includes lectures, discussions, readings, and other instructional activities. Coursework is often graded and contributes to the overall evaluation of a student’s performance in a course.

Understanding the distinction between coursework and course is crucial for students, educators, and administrators alike. Students must diligently engage with their coursework to succeed in a course, as it directly impacts their grades and academic progress. Educators, on the other hand, must design and deliver courses that effectively integrate coursework to foster meaningful learning outcomes.

Coursework and course are interconnected yet distinct components of the educational landscape. While coursework represents the practical assignments and assessments that students undertake to demonstrate their understanding and mastery of course material, a course encompasses the broader educational experience. By recognizing and appreciating the nuances between these terms, individuals can navigate the educational journey more effectively, both as learners and as facilitators of knowledge.

Shawn Manaher

Shawn Manaher is the founder and creative force behind GrammarBeast.com. A seasoned entrepreneur and language enthusiast, he is dedicated to making grammar and spelling both fun and accessible. Shawn believes in the power of clear communication and is passionate about helping people master the intricacies of the English language.

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[ kawrs -wurk , kohrs - ]

• the work required of a student in a particular course of study; classroom work .
• curricular studies or academic work .

/ ˈkɔːsˌwɜːk /

• written or oral work completed by a student within a given period, which is assessed as an integral part of an educational course

Word History and Origins

Origin of coursework 1

Example Sentences

Derek Dodson is practicing with the Georgetown University soccer team for a rescheduled season while preparing for the resumption of senior coursework next week.

In San Diego, and throughout the state, an unconscionable number of students are failing or haven’t completed their coursework.

She took a full load of classes in the spring, summer and fall, and in November completed all the coursework for an undergraduate degree in psychology.

Pevzner, who took over the program in 2017, still heads into the field—though day to day he focuses more on developing coursework and swapping insights with similar programs around the world.

Although most schools have increased their offerings of online coursework, the number and sizes of in-person classes vary widely, as does the density of students in on-campus housing.

Digital art coursework at the Rhode Island School of Design simultaneous with an English Ph.D. at Yale?

Her pre-college education had been weak, and Leo was utterly unprepared for the academic part of the coursework.

An obsession with college preparation permeated all of our coursework.

The ad-hocs spent their time badmouthing the profs and tearing apart their coursework.

How to Use course in a Sentence

• There is no cure, but the treatment will slow the course of the disease.
• Students earn the degree after a two-year course of study .

Some of these examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'course.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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How to Write a Coursework: Examples and Tips

Coursework is not like other assignments at a college or university. This task requires much more time and effort, which is necessary for research, planning, and writing. In our article, you will learn how to write your academic coursework and find high-quality examples that will help you get inspired for your work. EssayShark knows how to create the best coursework and is ready to share the experience!

Meet Coursework

If you want to know what is academic coursework, then you are on the right site. Academic coursework refers to the various tasks that are given to students as part of their educational program. These tasks are designed to assess students’ knowledge of the subjects they are studying. Coursework may include:

• Essays and research papers . Written assignments require students to research a topic, conduct research, and present their findings in a structured format. In difficult moments when completing such tasks, you can always tell our professionals, “ Write my essay for me .”
• Laboratory reports. Science and engineering courses include conducting experiments and documenting results and conclusions. Work throughout the semester must support the coursework.
• Homework. Regular assignments, given to reinforce lessons learned in class, are often used during term paper writing. They become the foundation for completing such a voluminous task.
• Practical works. Practical experience gained outside the classroom, often related to the subject of study, such as internships or research projects. During the research, the results of practical work are an excellent reinforcement of expertise.

How to Write a Coursework in a Few Simple Steps

Our writers are happy to share their years of experience creating various academic assignments. We have put together a detailed guide on how to write a coursework that will inspire you to get started.

Choosing a Topic for Coursework

The entire process of your work on the project will depend on which topic you choose. Your research can take much less time and be more enjoyable if you find a topic that inspires you. Use the tips below to determine the best topic for your coursework:

• Make a list of topics suggested to you and analyze it.
• Give preference to the topic that best suits your specialization.
• Pay attention to the topics that interest you most.
• Explore the number of information resources from which you can obtain data for coursework.
• Be inspired by the work of students who received positive feedback.
• Avoid topics you do not understand to avoid difficulties during work.

Gathering Information for the Project

To write coursework, you must spend more than one day researching, which will make up most of the project. In difficult moments, you can always turn to coursework writing help , and our professionals will find a way to relieve you of stress. Information sources such as books, online libraries, podcasts, and magazines become indispensable assistants during research.

You should base the project on a specific hypothesis, for which you need to find a method for collecting data. Choose what suits you best and follow the information that will help you succeed in your task. What three methods of collecting information are available to students?

• Personal research. A summary of all possible relevant studies on the topic that other authors have conducted. This method uses various sources of information available on the Internet or in the library.
• Survey or interview. During the research, the student conducts an interview and asks questions to a respondent with the necessary competence in the field of study. For example, this could be a survey of a professor who wrote a doctoral thesis on a chosen topic.
• Group discussion. Gathering in groups, students discuss the information they found and share the sources they refer to in their coursework. Collective research reveals the topic much more extensively.

No matter your research methods, taking notes on each reliable source is best. This will help you retain the information you found and save time searching again. Write down the page numbers, websites, or even minutes of podcasts where you find the information you need.

How to Write a Coursework According to a Detailed Plan

Planning work on the coursework is the next stage after preliminary research. Of course, the structure of the plan depends on the subject of the project, and our coursework writing service has compiled a brief description of the basic plan.

• Start with an introduction to the topic. Write the essence of your chosen topic and mention famous authors who will become an authoritative example and may be of interest.
• Demonstrate the essence of the problem/task. Analyze the main objectives of your topic and provide the essential information you found in the necessary sources.
• Writing the main part of the project. Review the information in detail and analyze the critical issues in your work to provide constructive solutions.
• Providing methodology. Describe the methods you used during your analysis or research.
• The discussion of the results. In your conclusions, demonstrate what results you came to and bring them to the main topic of your coursework.
• Compiling a bibliography. Make a list of all the references you referenced while writing, considering the formatting described in your assignment.

Coursework Introduction

Once you start working and know precisely the coursework definition, after preliminary research and drawing up a plan, it’s time to draw up an introduction. Do not underestimate the introduction because the overall impression of the entire project depends on it. In the first paragraph, you need to interpret the main tasks assigned. Also, in the introduction, you need the following:

• Write attention-grabbing sentences.
• Briefly provide background information from the assignment.
• Focus on the significance of the problem you solved or analyzed.
• Write a clear statement of the thesis you have come up with.

Understanding how to write a coursework introduction will give you an advantage during the professor’s review. After all, how you present your thoughts at the beginning of the project will demonstrate how competent you are in the topic and set the level for the entire coursework.

How to Write a Coursework Report: Tips From Top Writers

Our writers have been helping students with coursework for many years and know how to create a project that will surprise every reader. Deciding whether to buy coursework online or write it yourself is an eternal dilemma. Every expert has their writing secrets, and we are happy to share some of them with you so that you can get a high grade.

• Keep track of time management. You don’t need to put off doing work until later to avoid procrastination. It takes a lot of time to maintain the quality of the text and have time to research all the issues. Therefore, evenly distribute your time at work in your schedule to submit the project for review on time.
• Choose trusted sources of information . It can be tough to analyze information because several sites may have different definitions of the same value. Use only verified information that will not harm your coursework. If you know what is coursework, you clearly understand the importance of the reliability of the research.
• Follow the citation rules. The originality of the content in your coursework affects the final result. Your thoughts may agree with previously published articles, but all you need to do is rewrite parts that are not original. Follow the citation rules when mentioning an expert’s opinion and citing a specific source.
• Avoid empty words. A course project is a lengthy task with much text, but this is not a reason to dilute the text with unnecessary context. Every sentence you write should make sense and reveal the essence of your project. You can always tell us, “ write my coursework ” and receive a high-quality project filled with information.
• Editing is everything. Include several editing steps in your work plan. After writing each chapter of your coursework, edit it. It is best to edit the text after a break to avoid missing essential mistakes. After you complete the coursework, review the project yourself and ask a friend to review it again.

Coursework Examples From Professional Writers

In any job, having a quality example to inspire you is a chance to improve your skills. We are confident that our coursework sample will help you find the right path to success. With the help of our guide, you will not only learn how to write coursework but also see how a professional writer creates similar assignments.

Being a student means constantly watching and studying other people’s success because it is part of the learning process. If you want to see how to cite or format your project correctly, then our marketing coursework sample will help you. With us, you can easily return your lost muse and understand that coursework is not as scary as it seems. You will always find the support you need on our website, whether editing, writing, or searching for a quality example!

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Course vs. Coarse – How to Use Each Correctly

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What’s the Difference Between Course and Coarse ?

• 1 What’s the Difference Between Course and Coarse?
• 2 Using Course in a Sentence
• 3 Definition 2: a dish served as part of a meal
• 4 Definition 3: A series of lectures in a subject.
• 5 Using Coarse in a Sentence
• 6 Remembering Course vs. Coarse
• 7 Outside Examples
• 8 Quiz: Coarse vs. Course
• 9 Article Summary

Course and coarse are homophones; they sound the same but have different meanings and spellings. Course most often appears as a noun, but it can also function as a verb. Coarse acts as an adjective.

As a noun, course can mean a route, a part of a meal, or an academic class.

• The hiking trail was too difficult a course for the average person. (route meaning)
• The couple enjoyed a four course meal as part of their date. (part of a meal meaning)
• The art students were required to take a math course, although most didn’t want to do so. (academic class meaning)

The verb course means to flow or to run in a current . In fact, course developed from the Latin word for current .

• The river coursed down the mountain and to the ocean.

The adjective coarse means rough or crude . It can describe a material such as fabric, or the personality of a person.

• The sweater was made of wool, and it was very warm. However, the material was coarse and not soft at all. (of a fabric)
• The sailor cursed and swore at anyone who got in his way, and used coarse language even when he was in a good mood. (or a person)

Although these two words have completely different meanings, people still confuse them often because of their identical pronunciations.

Let’s look at how to use these words in context.

Using Course in a Sentence

When to use course : As a noun, course has three main meanings, each of which can be broken down further into more nuanced meanings.

Definition 1: a route or way to go

When to use it:

• You can use this to refer to a path or road
• It can also mean the way that a situation develops, or the passage of time.
• It also describes a plan to deal with an issue.
• It is a name for certain sports fields.
• Wait, this is the wrong direction. We’re way off course.
• Over the course of two hours, she saw many marvelous things.
• Because of the high crime in this area, the best course of action is to hire more police officers.
• He spent the day at the golf course.

Common expressions:

• The man had no money, no job, and no food, so his only course of action was to steal.
• Security checks all people entering the airport as a matter of course. It is nothing personal.
• Over the course of the next four years, all the university students will develop academically as well as in their personal lives.
• Don’t worry if you gain weight when you first start college. It’s par for the course, and happens to almost everyone.
• The reckless boy was on a collision course towards disaster.

Definition 2: a dish served as part of a meal

• Use this if the meal arrives in several parts, which is common at fancy restaurants.
• Use to describe an appetizer, entree, main course, and dessert.
• The restaurant critic didn’t like his appetizers, but he loved the main course.
• I’m not hungry enough for a four course meal.
• The wedding reception had two options for the main course: fish or chicken.
• It was a very expensive restaurant, and it only offered six course meals.

Definition 3: A series of lectures in a subject.

• Usually a course describes classes that occur for a set time period, such as a year, semester, or shorter period.
• It is more common to describe subjects taken at university.
• All the emergency responders need to take a refresher course on CPR.
• I’m majoring in Ecology so all of my courses are related to that field.
• I thought this would be an easy class but there is a lot of coursework.
• The professor designed the course schedule to fit the students’ needs.

There are also a couple idioms with course .

• Of course we will help you by giving you directions. We’re happy to help!
• You are only 12 years old. Of course you can get a job, in due course, but not now.

As you can see, course has a few different usages that might seem intimidating. Luckily, coarse does not have such an expansive definition.

Using Coarse in a Sentence

When to use bare : Coarse is the opposite of fine , so it describes cloth that is made with thick fibers and usually feels scratchy. It can also describe an impolite person with an uncouth manner. Sometimes it describes food ingredients with large particles or grains.

For example,

• He had no money for beautiful clothes; he could only afford a coarse shirt and some pants.
• I don’t want to invite her to the wedding. Her coarse manner will offend the older guests.
• This recipe calls for coarse grained salt.

Although this can describe something tangible as well as abstract, both meanings are similar.

Remembering Course vs. Coarse

When sounding out the word in their head, many people get confused by which spelling to choose. That’s because these words are homophones, and they sound the same.

Given this fact, try to remember the difference with this mnemonic device. The word course has the word our inside it. Roads, meals, and sports are all things we often do together, with our friends. This is our course to our home, this is our course at dinner, and this is our race course .

Additionally, coarse has the word arse inside it. Arse is another word for buttocks. It is often not polite to talk about this topic. In other words, to talk about an arse is coarse.

Outside Examples

• On a course that had always got the better of him in recent years, in-form English golfer Tommy Fleetwood hit a faultless 5-under 66 to win the French Open by one shot ahead of Peter Uihlein of the United States on Sunday. – USA Today
• Hours later, at about 5 p.m., Rauner reversed course, issuing the disaster declaration not only for Lake but for Kane and McHenry counties as well. – Chicago Tribune
• The Long Island native, who said she has dealt with insecurities related to her breasts since she was little, was incensed by the man’s coarse comments but wanted to avoid “going all New Yorker” on him in the presence of her jogging partner, Lilly, her 18-month-old daughter pushed along in a stroller. – New York Daily News
• Sites here are on coarse beach sand. It can often be foggy, windy and cool, which means you must pack warm layers even in the height of summer. – LA Times

Quiz: Coarse vs. Course

• It’s not at all unusual for some people to kiss each other on the cheek as a greeting; in fact, it’s simply a matter of ____________.
• These grains of sugar are too fine. I need something that’s a little more ___________.
• I need to speak to my father about his bad habit of using _____________ language around my baby. He needs to stop before my baby starts swearing!
• I’m so hungry I could eat a five _________ meal!
• My coworkers insult me every day. I’m not even surprised by it anymore. It’s just par for the ___________.

See answers below.

Article Summary

Should I use course or coarse ? Both of these words sound the same, but they have no overlap in meaning.

• Course is a passage (either a physical passage or of time), part of a meal, or or a series of academic lectures.
• Coarse means rough material or a harsh and impolite manner .

Remembering to use coarse for something lacking delicacy or refinement and course for everything else will help you always choose the correct spelling.

“Course” in a Sentence (with Audio)

Examples of how to use the word “course” in a sentence. How to connect “course” with other words to make correct English sentences.

course (n): a set of classes or a plan of study on a particular subject, usually leading to an exam or qualification

Use “course” in a sentence

Related Lessons

“Why” in a Sentence (with Audio)

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• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

We use of course to refer to things that are obvious or already known to the speaker and listener, or to everybody:

A tropical climate is, of course , very humid, so we sweated all the time. (We use commas here, before and after of course , to show that it refers to the whole of the first clause.)

A: It’s a public holiday – that’s why the shops are closed . B: Oh , of course , yes! I’d completely forgotten .

We use of course when a situation or piece of information is not surprising:

Our car broke down on the way to the station so, of course , we missed the train and had to buy new tickets. It cost us £80!

He’s mega-rich and, of course , he can afford to fly first class all the time.

We use of course to mean ‘yes’ when we are giving permission to someone to do something:

A: Can I borrow your newspaper for a minute? B: Of course . Go ahead .

We don’t use of course when we answer a question and give the listener information they do not already know. This can sound impolite:

A: When you were in London, did you go to any shows? B: Yes, we did . We went to three .

Not: Of course. We went to three . (The listener A may hear of course as meaning ‘how could you think we didn’t go to any shows?’ and A may think B felt that A had asked a stupid question.)

Discourse markers as responses

Word of the Day

out of harm's way

in a position that is safe from harm or from which harm cannot be done

Trial, judge, and jury: talking about what happens when a criminal is caught

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