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study

v. · n.
US //ˈstədi// UK //stˈʌdi// study
  1. 1 to learn a subject (v.)
    A1 Beginner

    to spend time learning about a subject, usually by reading books or going to college.

    to apply the mind to the acquisition of knowledge in a particular field, often within a formal educational framework.

    Example

    She needs to study hard this weekend for her chemistry exam on Monday.

    Example

    He decided to study international law at a prestigious university in Europe to broaden his career prospects.
  2. 2 to look closely (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to look at something very carefully to understand it better.

    to examine or observe something minutely and with close attention.

    Example

    The scientist studied the map for a long time before choosing a path.

    Example

    The detective studied the security footage, looking for any small detail that might identify the suspect.
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  1. 3 the act of learning (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    the time and effort you spend learning something.

    the activity or process of learning about something through reading or research.

    Example

    After years of study, she finally became a qualified doctor.

    Example

    The scholarship was awarded to students who demonstrated a deep commitment to the study of ancient history.
  2. 4 a room (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    a quiet room in a house used for reading, writing, or working.

    a private room in a residential building designated for reading, writing, or professional work.

    Example

    My father is in his study writing some emails and cannot be disturbed.

    Example

    The walls of the study were lined with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, creating a quiet sanctuary for the author to work.
  3. 5 research paper (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    a formal piece of research or a report about a specific subject.

    a detailed investigation and analysis of a subject or situation, often resulting in a published academic paper.

    Example

    A recent study shows that drinking coffee might be good for your heart.

    Example

    The university published a comprehensive study regarding the long-term effects of urban pollution on local wildlife populations.
  4. 6 artistic exercise (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Music

    a drawing or a piece of music made for practice.

    a drawing, painting, or musical composition produced as an exercise or in preparation for a larger work.

    Example

    The pianist practiced a difficult study to improve his finger speed.

    Example

    The artist's sketchbook was filled with anatomical studies of hands and feet, drawn in preparation for the final mural.
Etymology 1

Inherited from Middle English studien, from Old French estudier (Modern French étudier), from estudie (noun), borrowed from Latin studium. Displaced Old English cneordlæcan.

Etymology 2

Inherited from Middle English studie, from Old French estudie (Modern French étude), borrowed from Latin studium (“zeal, dedication, study”), from Proto-Indo-European *(s)tewd- (“to push, to hit”). Doublet of etude and studio.

Word family
Idioms3 entries

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