C1nounformal5K

Philosopher

UK /["/fəˈlɒsəfə(r)/"]/US /["/fəˈlɑːsəfər/"]/

Definition

a person who studies or writes about philosophy

In simple words: A person who thinks deeply about life and ideas.

Examples

  • We studied the writings of the Greek philosopher Aristotle.
  • a talk by a distinguished moral philosopher
  • the 17th-century Dutch philosopher Spinoza
  • the great philosophers of ancient Greece
  • He was a fine writer, historian and philosopher.
  • Was Marx a political, social or historical philosopher?
  • Whiteside was highly esteemed as an experimental philosopher.
  • He seems to be a bit of a philosopher.
  • Many of her followers regarded her as a true philosopher.

Usage notes

Use 'philosopher' in academic or thoughtful contexts. Avoid using it in casual conversations unless discussing ideas in depth. It's usually not appropriate in everyday settings.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'philosopher' as someone who 'shelves' deep thoughts about life.

Collocations

  • distinguished
  • eminent
  • famous
  • a philosopher of religion, science, etc.

Synonyms

  • thinker
  • intellectual
  • sage
  • scholar
  • wisdom-seeker

Antonyms

  • pragmatist
  • materialist
  • nonthinker

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'philosopher' with 'philosophy', which is the study of ideas.
  • Using 'philosopher' as an adjective, instead of a noun.
  • Mispronouncing it as if it were spelled 'philosofor'.