Elective course - 英语词汇详解

Meaning 1：Elective course (Elective course)

Elective course 🔊

/ɪˈlektɪv kɔːrs/

A class you can choose to take if you want, not one you have to take.

Elective course 🔊

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/ɪˈlektɪv kɔːrs/

A course that students can choose to take as part of their academic program, rather than being required.

📁 Category：School Education 🔖 Level：Beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'eligere' (to choose), from ex- (out) + legere (to pick).

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'elect' + 'ive' → you elect to take this course; it's your choice.

📖 Example

In my senior year, I chose photography as an elective course because I've always loved taking pictures. 🔊 In my senior year, I chose photography as an elective course because I've always loved taking pictures.

🔗 Collocations

choose an elective course – select a course freely from a list of options

enroll in an elective course – sign up for a non-mandatory class

popular elective course – a widely chosen optional class

🔄 Synonyms

optional course (n.) – A course that is not compulsory and can be taken by choice

choice subject (n.) – A subject a student selects from available alternatives

🚫 Antonyms

required course (n.) – A course that must be taken to fulfill degree requirements

mandatory course (n.) – A course that is compulsory for all students

🌱 Derivatives

elective (adj.) – Chosen by free will; optional

electively (adv.) – In an optional or chosen manner

📖 Cultural Story

The elective system was popularized in the 19th century by Harvard President Charles Eliot, who believed students should have freedom to choose courses beyond core requirements.