Meaning of the word abstract in English

What does abstract mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

abstract

US /ˈæb.strækt/

UK /ˈæb.strækt/

Adjective

existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence

Example:

•

Love is an abstract concept.

•

The theory deals with abstract principles.

Synonym:

conceptual theoretical non-representational intellectual philosophical

Antonym:

concrete tangible real physical material

(of art) not representing external reality, but rather expressing ideas and emotions by using colors, lines, and shapes

Example:

•

She prefers abstract art to realistic paintings.

•

The gallery features many modern and abstract sculptures.

Synonym:

non-objective non-representational expressionistic

Antonym:

realistic representational figurative

Noun

a summary of a text, scientific article, document, etc.

Example:

•

Please read the abstract before diving into the full paper.

•

The conference proceedings include an abstract for each presentation.

Synonym:

summary synopsis epitome digest précis

Verb

extract or remove (something)

Example:

•

The machine is designed to abstract impurities from the water.

•

It is possible to abstract a general principle from these specific cases.

Synonym:

extract remove separate withdraw derive

consider (something) theoretically or separately from (something else)

Example:

•

It's important to abstract the core issues from the minor details.

Synonym:

theorize generalize conceptualize

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