philosophical
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
relating to the study of ideas about knowledge, right and wrong, and the meaning of life.
pertaining to the academic or theoretical study of philosophy.
Simple“The two friends had a long philosophical discussion about whether people are born good.”
In context“The professor's latest book explores the philosophical foundations of modern democracy, questioning the ethical assumptions of early political theorists.”
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
staying calm and not getting upset when you face a difficult or disappointing situation.
demonstrating a calm, stoic, or detached attitude toward hardship or misfortune.
Simple“He was very philosophical about losing his job, saying it was just a chance to start something new.”
In context“Despite the sudden cancellation of her research grant, she remained philosophical, viewing the setback as an opportunity to refine her methodology.”
- 03 C1 Advanced
thinking about things in a very careful, deep, and logical way.
characterized by a rational, analytic, or critically minded approach to a subject.
Simple“She took a philosophical approach to the problem, looking at the facts instead of her feelings.”
In context“The committee adopted a philosophical stance on the issue, prioritizing long-term logical consistency over immediate political gains.”
SynonymsAntonyms
“Ever since, poets have used the form to write elegies, love notes, political invectives, philosophical inquiries, and more.”
“The episode has become famous, marking the moment when extraterrestrial life went from a theme for philosophical speculation to a serious scientific problem.”
From philosophy + -ical, from Ancient Greek φιλοσοφία (philosophía, “love of knowledge, scientific learning”). Displaced native Old English ūþwitlīċ.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.