Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to the mind or mental processes: Pertaining to the study, functions, or phenomena of the human mind and behavior.
   • Mental or emotional as opposed to physical: Concerning the state of a person's mind, emotions, or attitudes, rather than their bodily condition.

Usage

• Used to describe things connected to the science of psychology, the human mind, or emotional states.
• Often contrasts with "physical" to distinguish between mental and bodily aspects.

Examples

• As an adjective:
  • The patient's recovery depends on both physical and psychological care.
  • She is conducting psychological research on memory.
  • The trauma had a profound psychological effect on the survivors.

Advanced Usage

• "Psychological warfare": A strategy that uses propaganda, threats, or other techniques to influence an opponent's thinking, morale, or behavior, rather than using physical force.

  • The campaign involved elements of psychological warfare to demoralize the opposition.

• "Psychological moment": The most appropriate or opportune time for a particular action, considering the mental and emotional state of those involved. (Note: This is an idiomatic use).

  • He arrived at the psychological moment to defuse the tension.

Variants and Related Words

• Psychologically (adverb): In a way that relates to the mind or psychology.

  • She was psychologically prepared for the challenge.

• Psychologist (noun): A professional who studies the mind and behavior or treats mental conditions.

• Psychology (noun): The scientific study of the human mind and its functions, especially those affecting behavior.

Synonyms

• Mental: Relating to the mind.
• Emotional: Relating to a person's emotions.
• Cognitive: Relating to conscious intellectual activity (e.g., thinking, reasoning).

Antonyms

• Physical: Relating to the body as opposed to the mind.
• Physiological: Relating to the way a living organism or bodily part functions.

Related Phrases

• Psychological profile: An assessment of a person's psychological characteristics.
• Psychological thriller: A genre of fiction that emphasizes the unstable mental or emotional states of its characters to create suspense.

Adjective

1. of or relating to or determined by psychology
   • psychological theories
2. mental or emotional as opposed to physical in nature
   • give psychological support
   • psychological warfare