scholarly

/ˈskɒl.ər.li/
academic or intellectual

She has a scholarly approach to research.

She studies in a thorough, academic way.


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

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