abstract thought

noun phrase

Pronunciation: /ˈæbstrækt θɔːt/

Definition

The ability to process ideas, concepts, and relationships that are not physically present or directly observable.

Examples

• Mathematics relies heavily on abstract thought to manipulate numbers and symbols that represent reality.

• Children begin to develop abstract thought as they move from concrete play to hypothetical reasoning.

• Philosophy is the ultimate exercise in abstract thought, challenging us to define existence itself.

Synonyms of abstract thought

Words with a similar meaning to abstract thought:

• conceptualization
• theoretical reasoning
• higher-order thinking
• speculation

Antonyms of abstract thought

Words with the opposite meaning to abstract thought:

• concrete thinking

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