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Meaning of abstract in English
Pronunciation
/ˈæbˌstrækt/
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Verb
abstract
Definitions
1.
consider a concept without thinking of a specific example
Examples
« consider abstractly or theoretically »
2.
make off with belongings of others
3.
consider apart from a particular case or instance
Examples
« Let's abstract away from this particular example »
4.
give an abstract (of)
Classifying Adjective
abstract
Definitions
1.
not representing or imitating external reality or the objects of nature
Examples
« a large abstract painting »
Synonyms
nonrepresentational
2.
based on specialized theory
Examples
« a theoretical analysis »
Synonyms
technical
3.
dealing with a subject in the abstract without practical purpose or intention
Examples
« abstract reasoning »
« abstract science »
Synonyms
theoretical
Noun
abstract
Definitions
1.
a concept or idea not associated with any specific instance
Examples
« he loved her only in the abstract--not in person »
2.
a sketchy summary of the main points of an argument or theory
Qualitative Adjective
abstract
Etymology
Middle English: from Latin abstractus, literally ‘drawn away’, past participle of abstrahere, from ab-‘from’ + trahere‘draw off’
Definitions
1.
existing only in the mind
Examples
« separated from embodiment »
« abstract words like 'truth' and 'justice' »
Synonyms
conceptual
ideal
conceptional
ideational
notional
Antonyms
concrete
See also
intangible
nonrepresentational