Definition

1. Adjective: relating to or having the characteristics of an autodidact (a self-taught person). It describes the process, method, or nature of learning independently, without formal instruction from teachers or institutions.

Usage

The adjective "autodidactic" is used to describe a person's approach to learning, their acquired skills, or the process itself. It emphasizes independence, self-direction, and learning through one's own initiative and resources (e.g., books, online materials, practice).

Examples

• She gained her profound knowledge of philosophy through autodidactic study.
• His programming skills are entirely autodidactic; he never took a computer science course.
• The artist's autodidactic journey was documented in her journals, filled with experiments and self-critiques.

Advanced Usage

• "autodidacticism" (noun): The practice or principle of self-education.
  • His success is a testament to the power of autodidacticism.
• "autodidactically" (adverb): In a self-taught manner.
  • He learned the language autodidactically using online resources and conversation partners.

Variants and Related Words

• Autodidact (noun): A self-taught person.
  • Leonardo da Vinci is often considered the quintessential autodidact.
• Self-educated (adjective): Similar in meaning to "autodidactic," often used interchangeably.
• Self-directed learning (noun phrase): A broader educational concept that encompasses autodidacticism.

Synonyms

• Self-taught
• Self-instructed
• Self-educated

Antonyms

• Formally educated
• Schooled
• Tutored
• Institutionalized (in an educational context)

Adjective

1. relating to or having the characteristics of an autodidact