English Reference

Word

academics

Phoneticsaca·demics

US/ˌækəˈdɛmɪks/

UK/ˌækədˈɛmɪks/

Definitions

01university life and study

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Academic

n. the subjects you study at school or university, and the world of research and learning.

n. the world of higher education, research, and scholarly activities. Uncountable in this sense.

“She decided to focus on her academics rather than joining the sports team.”

“The university's reputation for excellence in academics attracts researchers from across the globe who are eager to collaborate on high-level projects.”

Usage

Often used to refer to the general field of study or a student's performance in their courses.

Antonyms

02university teachers

B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun Formal

n. people who teach and do research at a university.

n. plural form of academic; individuals who belong to a university or other institute of higher education as teachers or researchers.

“Many academics attended the conference to share their latest findings.”

“A group of leading academics signed an open letter expressing their concerns about the proposed changes to the national curriculum.”

Usage

The plural form of the countable noun 'academic'.

Antonyms

studentslaypeople

Real-World Examples

“These arguments playing out among academics make untangling the science near impossible for parents.”
The Guardian 16 Jul 2026
“The greatest literature ever published in English, as voted for by authors, critics and academics worldwide.”
The Guardian 16 May 2026

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference