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Meaning of abstract in English

  1. Pronunciation

    /ˈæbˌstrækt/

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  1. Verb

    abstract

    Definitions

    1. consider a concept without thinking of a specific example

    Examples

    • « consider abstractly or theoretically »
  2. 2. make off with belongings of others
  3. 3. consider apart from a particular case or instance

    Examples

    • « Let's abstract away from this particular example »
  4. 4. give an abstract (of)
  5. Classifying Adjective

    abstract

    Definitions

    1. not representing or imitating external reality or the objects of nature

    Examples

    • « a large abstract painting »

    Synonyms

    • nonrepresentational
  6. 2. based on specialized theory

    Examples

    • « a theoretical analysis »

    Synonyms

    • technical
  7. 3. dealing with a subject in the abstract without practical purpose or intention

    Examples

    • « abstract reasoning »
    • « abstract science »

    Synonyms

    • theoretical
  8. 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 »
  9. 2. a sketchy summary of the main points of an argument or theory
  10. 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

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