in the abstract

The phrase in the abstract is often used in English, but what does this idiom mean? When idioms are used in the right situations, they strengthen communication and enrich the language. You can communicate more effectively by learning the meaning of in the abstract.

Meaning of "in the abstract"

Meaning

The phrase "in the abstract" is used to indicate that a concept is being discussed in a general way, without a specific instance or example. It is often used to talk about theoretical or philosophical ideas that one finds interesting, but would not necessarily use in a practical or real-world context. For example, one might say that they find a certain argument "interesting in the abstract," but not actually apply it in practice.

Etymology

The phrase "in the abstract" has been in use since at least the 16th century, first appearing in print in John Fenton's 1576 translation of Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics. The phrase comes from the Latin "abs”, meaning “away”, combined with “trahere” meaning “to draw”. In the 16th century, it was used to mean “considered apart from any particular instance", which is still its primary meaning today.

Usage

The phrase "in the abstract" is primarily used in academic and philosophical contexts, as it is a way to refer to concepts or ideas without using concrete examples. For example, a professor might talk about the history of ethics in the abstract, without going into details about specific ethical theories or doctrines. It can also be used in a less serious context, to refer to something that sounds interesting but is not actually feasible. For example, someone might say that they like the idea of time travel in the abstract, but don't think it is actually possible.

Example Sentences

• "I find the idea of a utopian society interesting in the abstract, but I don't think it is actually achievable."
• "He was discussing the principles of ethics in the abstract, without giving any specific examples."
• "She said she liked the idea of flying cars in the abstract, but that she didn't think they were practical."

Beyond the Literal: Figurative Language in Idioms

Idioms often use figurative language to convey a message that is not meant to be taken literally. For instance, the idiom "bite the bullet" means to endure a painful or difficult situation without complaint, while "hold your horses" means to be patient and wait. Other idioms, like "kick the bucket" or "pop your clogs," use euphemisms to talk about death.