B2adjective2K

UK/["/ˈæbstrækt/"]/US/["/ˈæbstrækt/"]/

Meaning of Abstract

based on general ideas and not on any particular real person, thing or situation

In simple words: Not concrete, hard to understand; relating to ideas rather than physical things.

Abstract in a sentence

  • **abstract knowledge/principles**
  • The research shows that pre-school children are capable of thinking in abstract terms.
  • Abstract principles are no good in this particular situation.
  • All human beings are capable of thinking in abstract terms.
  • We may talk of beautiful things but beauty itself is abstract.
  • Mathematics is an extremely abstract discipline.
  • Some of the ideas that their legal system is based on are incredibly abstract.
  • Freedom is more than a purely abstract notion.
  • the work of American abstract expressionists like Mark Rothko

How to use Abstract

Use 'abstract' when discussing concepts that are not grounded in the physical world, like ideas or theories. It may not be appropriate in casual conversations about everyday objects.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'absent' in 'abstract'—it's absence from reality, focusing on ideas.

Related words

Synonyms for Abstract

  • theoretical
  • conceptual
  • intangible
  • nonrepresentational
  • imprecise

Opposites of Abstract

Common mistakes with Abstract

  • Confusing 'abstract' with 'abstracted', which means distracted.
  • Using 'abstract' as a noun instead of an adjective.
  • Assuming all art labeled as 'abstract' is difficult to understand.

Abstract appears in

450 Essential Words for the TOEFL496The Oxford 50002064

Abstract in other languages

More words like Abstract

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Frequently asked questions about Abstract

What does Abstract mean?

Not concrete, hard to understand; relating to ideas rather than physical things.

What is the definition of Abstract?

based on general ideas and not on any particular real person, thing or situation

How do you use Abstract in a sentence?

**abstract knowledge/principles**

Can you give another example of Abstract?

The research shows that pre-school children are capable of thinking in abstract terms.

What are synonyms for Abstract?

Common alternatives include theoretical, conceptual, intangible, nonrepresentational, imprecise.

What is the opposite of Abstract?

Opposite meanings include concrete, literal, tangible.

What words go with Abstract?

It commonly pairs with be, extremely, fairly, very, be, extremely, fairly, very, be, extremely, fairly, very.

What are common mistakes when using Abstract?

Confusing 'abstract' with 'abstracted', which means distracted. Using 'abstract' as a noun instead of an adjective. Assuming all art labeled as 'abstract' is difficult to understand.

How do you pronounce Abstract?

US: /["/ˈæbstrækt/"]/, UK: /["/ˈæbstrækt/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Abstract?

Use 'abstract' when discussing concepts that are not grounded in the physical world, like ideas or theories. It may not be appropriate in casual conversations about everyday objects.

What CEFR level is Abstract?

"Abstract" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.