C1adjectiveformaleducation
US/roʊt/
UK/rəʊt/
learned or done by repeating something many times without thinking about its meaning
In context
Many students complain that rote learning kills their interest in history.
The teacher replaced rote memorization with group projects and class discussions.
Her answers sounded rote, as if she had recited them without understanding.
Words that go with rote
adjective + noun
- rote learningRote learning is still common in many Asian schools.
- rote memorizationRote memorization will not help you in the speaking test.
- rote methodThe rote method works for vocabulary lists but not for essays.
- rote repetitionRote repetition can make facts stick, but it does not build understanding.
verb + preposition
- learn by roteChildren in the old system had to learn by rote.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
learn by rote learningCorrect: learn by rote / rote learning