English Reference
Adverb

conceptually

adv.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /kənˈsɛptʃuəɫi/ UK /kənsˈɛptʃuːəli/ con·cep·tu·al·ly

adv.in a way that relates to ideas rather than physical things. You use this when you are thinking about something in a general or abstract way.

adv.in a manner relating to ideas, theories, or mental processes rather than physical reality.


SIMPLE

The two theories are conceptually different.

CONTEXTUAL

The new software is conceptually simple, but it takes a lot of time to master all the features.

COMPLEX

While the two projects share a similar goal, they are conceptually distinct because one focuses on long-term sustainability while the other prioritizes immediate economic gains.

It’s conceptually similar to the technology on the International Space Station.

Ars Technica· 15 Jul 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated