# abstractness

CEFR C1 · Noun

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

## Definition

the quality of being difficult to understand or not related to real life. It describes ideas or art that are very general and not tied to specific things.

For teachers: the quality of being conceptual, theoretical, or detached from concrete reality. Often describes intellectual or artistic works that lack specific detail or practical application.

## Examples

- The professor criticized the essay for its abstractness.
- The artist's latest paintings are famous for their abstractness, focusing on colors and shapes rather than clear images.
- While the theory provides a useful framework, its abstractness makes it difficult for policymakers to apply to real-world economic conditions without further data.

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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.