# abstractively

CEFR C2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abstractively
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

in a way that deals with ideas rather than physical things. You use this to describe thinking or writing that focuses on general concepts instead of specific details.

For teachers: in a manner that deals with general concepts or ideas rather than specific instances or physical reality. Often used to describe intellectual processes or artistic styles that transcend literal representation.

## Examples

- The artist paints abstractively, focusing on colors and shapes rather than people.
- The philosopher argued that we must think abstractively about justice to understand its true nature.
- By abstractively analyzing the data, the researchers were able to identify underlying patterns that were invisible when looking at individual cases.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.