scholarly

/ˈskɒl.ər.li/
adjectiveIntermediate
formal

Characterized by or suitable for learned study; academic or intellectual

The professor gave a scholarly lecture on medieval literature.

The professor's lecture was detailed and academic.

He has a scholarly interest in ancient history.

He studies ancient history in a serious, academic way.

💡

Often used to describe writing, research, or behavior that is thorough and well-researched.

Collocations

scholarly articlea formal, well-researched academic paperscholarly debatea serious, intellectual discussionscholarly workacademic research or writing

Synonyms

Antonyms

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal

Use 'scholarly' for academic or intellectual contexts, not casual or everyday situations.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'scholarly,' from Old English 'scoleric,' meaning 'of or belonging to a school,' from Latin 'schola' (school).

📝Usage Notes

Often used to describe people, writing, or behavior that is serious, well-researched, and academic. Can sometimes imply a slightly old-fashioned or overly formal style.

Word Breakdown

schol-
school, learning
root
+
-ar
pertaining to
suffix
+
-ly
in a manner
suffix
English Dictionary