Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[hiromichi]

What does "academic" below really mean in the context?


The deal would also restrict gold-plated farewells for executives of companies that sell devalued assets to the Treasury Department. But by mid-afternoon on Monday, no one could safely predict whether the provisions in the 110-page bill were strictly academic.
_________________
Hiromichi

[Philo Kevetch]

Hello Hiromichi -

In your example, 'academic' = speculative

'academic' - theoretical and not expected to produce an immediate or practical act or result.


Philo

[hiromichi]

Philo Kevetch,
Hello! Thank you very much.
_________________
Hiromichi