academically

[ak-uh-dem-ik-lee]

adverb

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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

• interacademically adverb
• nonacademically adverb
• pseudoacademically adverb
• quasi-academically adverb
• semiacademically adverb
• subacademically adverb
• unacademically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of academically¹

First recorded in 1600–10; either academical ( def. ) + -ly ( def. ) or academic ( def. ) + -ally ( def. )

Example Sentences

Research suggests that students who enroll in classes with a focus on career and technical training tend to perform better academically and have higher attendance rates.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

“They were texting me every day. I wasn’t doing very good academically here. I thought I needed a restart.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The University of the West of England study found pupils who categorised themselves as struggling academically were at greater risk of seeing content on topics like self harm.

Read more on BBC

She invited him to join the ensemble of “Vida,” a series filmed in his native Boyle Heights, in the role of Marcos, an academically accomplished queer man.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Because they typically have to catch up academically, these students can remain in the school system until age 22, Becerra said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times