Rote Meaning in English
word
Definition
The process of learning something by repeating it many times, usually without understanding its meaning; memorization by repetition.
Usage & Nuances
Used most often in educational contexts, 'by rote' means learning by repetition, not by understanding. Often carries a negative tone, suggesting superficial learning. Common in phrases like 'learn by rote' or 'rote memorization'.
Example Sentences
She learned the poem by rote.
basic
Children sometimes memorize facts by rote without understanding them.
basic
The teacher does not encourage learning by rote.
basic
I passed the test, but it was just rote memorization—I can't really explain it.
natural
Some things you just have to learn by rote—like multiplication tables.
natural
His speech sounded like rote repetition; there was no passion in it.
natural