Institutional
ˌɪnstɪˈtjuːʃənəl
Definitions
2 meaningsRelating to or forming part of an institution; of or relating to a long-standing and important organization, such as a bank or university.
ˌɪnstɪˈtjuːʃənəl
Relating to or characteristic of an institution or organization.
The university established institutional guidelines for student conduct.
💡 Simply: Imagine a big school or a bank. 'Institutional' means it has something to do with that school or bank, like their rules or how they work.
👶 For kids: Like something that belongs to a school, a hospital, or a big company.
More Examples
The report investigated the institutional failings that led to the crisis.
Institutional memory can be valuable for organizations.
How It's Used
"Institutional factors often influence social behavior."
"Institutional investors hold significant shares in the company."
"The legal system is an institutional framework for justice."
Established as a convention or norm in an institution or system, and considered to be fundamental or essential.
ˌɪnstɪˈtjuːʃənəl
Established as a custom or long-standing practice.
Institutional racism continues to affect marginalized communities.
💡 Simply: 'Institutional' can also mean something that's been done for a long time, like the way things are usually done in an organization or a government.
👶 For kids: Something that has been going on for a long time, like a school rule.
More Examples
The company culture is deeply institutionalized and resistant to change.
The new policy challenged institutional norms.
How It's Used
"Institutional practices of governance were challenged."
"The institutional memory of a community."
From Late Latin *institutionālis*, from Latin *institutio* ('establishment, instruction'). The word has evolved to encompass organizations, customs, and established practices within a society.
The term has been in use since the early 17th century, initially referring to established practices and customs.
Memory tip
Think of the 'institution' as a large, established building or organization. 'Institutional' describes something connected to it.