popa_bar_abba: “Avi, I will teach you something interesting. Sometimes, the same words can mean something different! Imagine that!”
That’s true (though harsh). But it may or not be applicable here. But even if one were define derech eretz as work in all situations, I think the kollel system would still not be undermined. Jost because it beautifies Torah does not mean it’s necessary. And even within the current kollel system, no expects you to learn as a parnasah for ever. You’ll work eventually.