comp
/kɔmp/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- An intensive examination testing a student's proficiency in a special field of knowledge: A comprehensive test, often used in graduate programs, to assess a student's mastery of their subject area before they proceed to dissertation work.
- (Informal) A complimentary ticket or item; something provided free of charge: A short form for "complimentary," often used in entertainment, hospitality, or marketing contexts.
- (Informal, dated) A compositor: A person who sets type for printing; an abbreviation for this occupation is now rare.
Usage Examples
Noun (Examination):
- She spent months studying for her doctoral comps in biology.
- Passing the comprehensive exam is a major milestone in the PhD program.
Noun (Complimentary Item):
- The casino gave him comps for meals and a hotel room.
- I got two comp tickets to the concert from a friend who works at the venue.
Noun (Compositor):
- In the old print shop, the comp worked quickly to set the day's newspaper. (This usage is historical.)
Advanced Usage
- "to comp someone" (verb): To provide something complimentary to someone, especially a ticket, meal, or service.
- The restaurant comped our dessert because of the long wait.
- Can you comp me a ticket for the show?
Variants and Related Words
- Comprehensive examination (n): The full term for an academic "comp."
- Complimentary (adj): Given free as a courtesy or favor. ("complimentary breakfast")
- Compositor (n): The full term for a typesetter.
Synonyms
- Examination, test, comprehensive exam (for the academic meaning).
- Freebie, perk, courtesy (for the complimentary meaning).
Related Phrases
- Comp time: Compensatory time off from work given in lieu of overtime pay.
- I earned ten hours of comp time for working last weekend.
Noun
- an intensive examination testing a student's proficiency in some special field of knowledge
- she took her comps in English literature