Is metaphysical a formal word?

Yes. It is more common in writing, study, and serious discussion than in casual speech.

What is the difference between metaphysical and philosophical?

Metaphysical is about reality and existence. Philosophical is broader and can cover many kinds of ideas.

Can I use metaphysical in everyday English?

Yes, but mostly for abstract topics, not ordinary daily actions.

← Dictionary

metaphysical

/ˌmɛt.əˈfɪz.ɪ.kəl/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Relating to ideas about existence, reality, and what is beyond the physical world. It is used in philosophy, and sometimes in a spiritual or abstract way.

She wrote about metaphysical questions.
The book explores metaphysical ideas.
They had a long metaphysical debate.

Adinary Nuance

Metaphysical is more abstract than philosophical in general. It often points to questions about reality, being, and what exists beyond the physical world. Use philosophical for broader thinking about ideas, morals, or knowledge. Use spiritual when you mean religion or personal belief more clearly.

In other languages

Vietnamese: Siêu hình
Spanish: Metafísico
Chinese: 形而上学的
Japanese: 形而上学的
Korean: 형이상학의

Etymology

From Greek meta meaning “beyond” and physika meaning “physics” or “nature.” The word came into English through philosophical writing in the 17th century.

Common phrases

metaphysical questionsmetaphysical debatemetaphysical poetrymetaphysical idea

Synonyms

philosophical abstract theoretical

Frequently asked questions

Is metaphysical a formal word?: Yes. It is more common in writing, study, and serious discussion than in casual speech.
What is the difference between metaphysical and philosophical?: Metaphysical is about reality and existence. Philosophical is broader and can cover many kinds of ideas.
Can I use metaphysical in everyday English?: Yes, but mostly for abstract topics, not ordinary daily actions.