academically

American  

[ak-uh-dem-ik-lee] / ˌæk əˈdɛm ɪk li /

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.

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Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of academically

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

Example Sentences

"I think, academically, I would describe it as a load of old phooey," says Grosvenor, who believes a lot of art historical colleagues are too nervous to speak out.

From BBC • May 1, 2026

Allen graduated from Caltech, one of the most academically rigorous schools in America, in 2017 with a degree in mechanical engineering, according to the school and the commencement program.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 26, 2026

He began a bachelor’s program, thinking it might help, but struggled academically and left early with $60,000 in student debt.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 21, 2026

Rodriguez believes Honey’s enrollment could open the door for more students to petition for special admit status if they are academically ready.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026

“It means if you’re smart, you have to help people like you, who, you know, aren’t so, uh, academically gifted.”

From "The Smartest Kid in the Universe" by Chris Grabenstein