academically
Americanadverb
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in a way that relates to studies at a college, academy, school, or other educational institution.
Our caring teaching staff are committed to helping each child develop as a whole person—academically, physically, socially, and emotionally.
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in a way that pertains to areas of study that are not primarily applied, such as the humanities or pure mathematics, or to instruction that is theoretical rather than hands-on.
It’s possible to be academically prepared while also having a good concentration in career and technical education.
I have studied art both academically in college and through a subsequent apprenticeship with an artist.
-
in a way that is purely theoretical or hypothetical rather than practical, realistic, or directly useful.
While many theologians write academically and very dryly, this author sets before us a rich feast for both heart and mind.
-
in a way that conforms to set rules, standards, or traditions; conventionally.
Today it is almost a crime to paint academically or realistically, so few art study programs contribute much to the solid foundation required to be a professional artist.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of academically
First recorded in 1600–10; either academical ( def. ) + -ly ( def. ) or academic ( def. ) + -ally ( def. )
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
James Drayton is socially gauche but academically gifted.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 24, 2026
Some of those colleges are outstanding academically, but they’re also extraordinarily expensive.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 21, 2026
There was nothing wrong with the Madison, N.J., public school Ankur Jain’s 11-year-old son attended: Arjan was happy and excelling academically.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 4, 2026
It has focused particularly on those struggling academically or considering taking a break from their studies.
From BBC ● Jul. 3, 2026
Because I don’t begin to be academically equipped for so many of the interests that I have.
From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
