English Reference

Word

scholastic

Phoneticsscholas·tic

US/skəˈɫæstɪk/

UK/skəlˈɑːstɪk/

Definition

adj. relating to schools, education, or serious study. It often describes things that are very formal or traditional in the world of learning.

adj. relating to schools, scholars, or education; specifically referring to the formal philosophical and theological system of medieval Europe. Often used to describe academic rigor or traditional methods of instruction.

Examples

“The university offers several scholastic scholarships each year.”

“Her scholastic achievements earned her a place at one of the most prestigious research institutes in the country.”

“The curriculum was criticized for its rigid scholastic approach, which prioritized the memorization of classical texts over the development of practical scientific inquiry.”

Examples

simple

“The university offers several scholastic scholarships each year.”

contextual

“Her scholastic achievements earned her a place at one of the most prestigious research institutes in the country.”

complex

“The curriculum was criticized for its rigid scholastic approach, which prioritized the memorization of classical texts over the development of practical scientific inquiry.”

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun to describe academic qualities or historical philosophical systems.

Real-World Examples

“We had 24 staff on site as we prepared for the new scholastic year, which is scheduled to start next week.”
UN News 27 Aug 2026
“A common way of teaching known as the scholastic method dominated in most universities.”
Encyclopedia.com 11 Oct 2023
“Some medieval scholastics debated how many angels could dance on the head of a pin.”
NAS 1 Jan 2010
“She also helps other scholastic journalists as an intern and member of the SPLC’s New Voices program.”
The Guardian 4 Sept 2026

Word family

ADJECTIVE

scholastic(C1)

Domain

Philosophy

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.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL 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: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
Frequency
Occasional
Level
C1 · Advanced
Updated

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English Reference