Definition

Noun: 1. Abstract thought: The mental process of thinking about ideas, concepts, or principles that are not physically present or concrete. It involves coherent and logical reasoning about intangible subjects, such as mathematics, philosophy, or theoretical plans.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • Advanced mathematics requires a high capacity for abstract thought.
  • Philosophers engage in abstract thought to explore concepts like justice and existence.
  • Her plan was the product of careful abstract thought, not just a reaction to events.

Advanced Usage

• "Capacity for abstract thought": This phrase describes a person's ability to think about non-concrete concepts.
  • The development of language is closely linked to the human capacity for abstract thought.
• "Realm of abstract thought": Refers to the domain or subject area of non-physical ideas.
  • The debate moved from practical details into the realm of abstract thought.

Variants and Related Words

• Abstraction (n): The act of considering something in a general or conceptual way, separate from physical objects or specific instances.
  • Creating a model of the economy is an exercise in abstraction.
• Abstract (adj): Existing as an idea or quality rather than a concrete object.
  • "Beauty" is an abstract concept.

Synonyms

• Conceptual thinking: Thinking in terms of concepts and ideas.
• Theoretical reasoning: Logical thought about theories and hypotheses.
• Logical reasoning: The process of thinking coherently and logically.

Related Phrases

• "Abstract reasoning": Often used interchangeably with "abstract thought," emphasizing the logical aspect.
  • The test measures verbal comprehension and abstract reasoning.

Noun

1. thinking that is coherent and logical