abstractly
/ˈæb.strækt.li/ IELTSAcademic
adverb
In a general or non-specific way, without focusing on details or real examples. It can also mean in a way that is hard to picture or understand clearly.
- She explained the idea abstractly.
- Try not to think abstractly all the time.
- The theory sounds clear abstractly, but not in practice.
Adinary Nuance
Abstractly is close to broadly, generally, and theoretically, but it is more about ideas than about exact facts. Use it when you mean something is discussed at a high level, not with specific examples. It can sound academic or formal in school and business writing.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- trừu tượng
- Spanish
- abstractamente
- Chinese
- 抽象地
- Japanese
- 抽象的に
- Korean
- 추상적으로
Etymology
Abstractly comes from abstract, which entered English from Latin abstractus, meaning 'pulled away' or 'separated.' The adverb form developed later in English.
Common phrases
think abstractlyspeak abstractlyunderstand something abstractly
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is abstractly formal or informal?
- It is more formal than everyday speech. You will often see it in essays, lectures, and academic writing.
- What is the difference between abstractly and theoretically?
- Abstractly means in a general, idea-based way. Theoretically means in a way based on a theory or possible model.
- Can I use abstractly in business writing?
- Yes, if you are discussing ideas, plans, or strategy at a high level. It may sound too academic for very simple messages.
- How do I use abstractly in a sentence?
- Place it near the verb it describes: 'She thought abstractly about the problem.'