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Bookishness - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Bookishness refers to a strong interest in reading and studying, often implying a scholarly or intellectual demeanor. It can describe someone who is more comfortable with books than social interactions.

bookishness

/ˈbʊkɪʃnəs/ /ˈbʊkɪʃnəs/

Definition:

Characterized by excessive study or devotion to books, often to the exclusion of practical experience.

Synonyms:

studious, scholarly, pedantic, academic

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

unscholarly, practical, worldly

Common Collocations:

bookishness of a scholar, air of bookishness, display of bookishness

Derivatives:

bookish, bookishly

Usage Tips:

Use "bookishness" to describe someone overly focused on academic knowledge rather than real-world experience.

Common Phrases:

lost in bookishness, air of bookishness, display of bookishness

Etymology:

Derived from "bookish," meaning devoted to reading or studying books (late 16th century).

Examples:

  • 1. His bookishness made him shy in social settings.
  • 2. She admired his bookishness but wished he’d go outside more.
  • 3. The professor’s bookishness was evident in his detailed lectures.
  • 4. Her bookishness often kept her from joining group activities.

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