philosophical

/,filə'sɔfik/ Cách viết khác : (philosophical) /,filə'sɔfikəl/
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philosophical

A student ponders a philosophical question in the library.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Relating to philosophy: Of or concerning the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence.
    • Characteristic of a philosopher: Having or showing a calm, wise, and rational attitude, especially when facing difficulty.
Usage
  • The primary meaning relates directly to the academic discipline of philosophy.
  • When describing a person's attitude, it implies being thoughtful, composed, and accepting, often in situations that might cause others distress.
Examples
  • Relating to philosophy:
    • The course covers a wide range of philosophical questions about morality and justice.
    • Her latest book is a philosophical treatise on the nature of time.
  • Characteristic of a philosopher (calm and rational attitude):
    • He was remarkably philosophical about losing his job, seeing it as a chance for a new beginning.
    • She accepted the bad news with a philosophical shrug.
Advanced Usage
  • "Philosophical about something": To accept a difficult situation calmly and rationally, without excessive emotion.
    • You have to be philosophical about setbacks in this business; they are inevitable.
  • In a philosophical sense/terms: Considering something from the perspective of abstract principles or fundamental ideas.
    • In a philosophical sense, all human action can be seen as a search for meaning.
Variants and Related Words
  • Philosophic (adjective): An alternative, often more literary, form of "philosophical," with the same meanings.
    • He maintained a philosophic calm throughout the crisis.
  • Philosophy (noun): The study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence.
  • Philosopher (noun): A person engaged or learned in philosophy; a person who is rationally or calmly resigned to the vicissitudes of life.
Synonyms
  • Theoretical: Concerned with or involving the theory of a subject rather than its practical application.
  • Abstract: Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence.
  • Stoic: Enduring pain or hardship without showing feelings or complaining. (Specifically for the attitude meaning).
  • Detached: Aloof and objective; not influenced by emotion or personal interest.
Antonyms
  • Practical: Concerned with the actual doing or use of something rather than with theory and ideas.
  • Emotional: Relating to a person's emotions, especially when they are strongly affected.
  • Agitated: Feeling or appearing troubled or nervous.
philosophical

A student ponders a philosophical question in the library.

Adjective
  1. characterized by the attitude of a philosopher; meeting trouble with level-headed detachment
    • philosophical resignation
    • a philosophic attitude toward life
  2. of or relating to philosophy or philosophers
    • philosophical writing
    • a considerable knowledge of philosophical terminology