abstract

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ab|stract /'æbstrækt/ (abstracts)
1 [ADJ]
An abstract idea or way of thinking is based on general ideas rather than on real things and events.
...abstract principles such as justice...
It's not a question of some abstract concept.
= theoretical
● abstractly [ADV]
It is hard to think abstractly in these conditions.
2 [PHRASE] PHR with cl/group
When you talk or think about something in the abstract, you talk or think about it in a general way, rather than considering particular things or events.
Money was a commodity she never thought about except in the abstract.
3 [ADJ] ADJ n
In grammar, an abstract noun refers to a quality or idea rather than to a physical object.
...abstract words such as glory, honor, and courage.
≠ concrete
4 [ADJ] usu ADJ n
Abstract art makes use of shapes and patterns rather than showing people or things.
...a modern abstract painting.
≠ figurative
5 [N-COUNT]
An abstract is an abstract work of art.
6 [N-COUNT] oft N of n
An abstract of an article, document, or speech is a short piece of writing that gives the main points of it.
= summary

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