Basic Details
Word: Abstract
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Something that is not a physical object, but ideas or concepts that you cannot touch or see.
Synonyms: Conceptual, theoretical, hypothetical
Antonyms: Concrete, tangible, definite
Idioms and Phrases
- Abstract thought: Refers to thinking about concepts and ideas rather than facts or concrete items. Example: "Her abstract thought process helped her come up with creative solutions."
- In the abstract: Considering something in general, rather than focusing on specific examples. Example: "In the abstract, freedom sounds simple, but it can be complex to define."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The concept of love is often seen as abstract because it varies greatly from person to person.
Example 2: The artist's abstract painting used bold colours and shapes to express emotions rather than realistic scenes.
Example 3: Abstract reasoning is an important skill in mathematics, where you have to understand ideas rather than just numbers.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the term "abstract" comes from the Latin word "abstractus," which means "pulled away"? This reflects how abstract ideas are often removed from the concrete reality we see every day!
Famous Quote
"Art is the most beautiful of all lies; it is a form of abstraction, where reality is transformed into something extraordinary." - Amedeo Modigliani
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "abstract" mean?
a) A type of food
b) A clear picture
c) An idea that cannot be touched
d) A part of a book
Answer: c) An idea that cannot be touched
2. Which of these is a synonym of "abstract"?
a) Tangible
b) Concrete
c) Conceptual
d) Definite
Answer: c) Conceptual
3. What is an antonym of "abstract"?
a) Rigid
b) Abstracted
c) Tangible
d) Theoretical
Answer: c) Tangible
4. Which sentence uses "abstract" correctly?
a) She saw an abstract idea in the book.
b) The abstract painting showed a dog playing.
c) The abstract concept was hard to understand.
d) He enjoyed the abstract cake at the party.
Answer: c) The abstract concept was hard to understand.
5. Which idiom means thinking about ideas generally?
a) Abstract thought
b) In the abstract
c) A bird in the hand
d) All that glitters is not gold
Answer: b) In the abstract
