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philosophical

adj.
US //ˌfɪɫəˈsɑfɪkəɫ// UK //fˌɪləsˈɒfɪkəl// philo·soph·i·cal
  1. 1 relating to philosophy (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    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.

    Example

    The two friends had a long philosophical discussion about whether people are born good.

    Example

    The professor's latest book explores the philosophical foundations of modern democracy, questioning the ethical assumptions of early political theorists.
  2. 2 calm and accepting (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    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.

    Example

    He was very philosophical about losing his job, saying it was just a chance to start something new.

    Example

    Despite the sudden cancellation of her research grant, she remained philosophical, viewing the setback as an opportunity to refine her methodology.
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  1. 3 thoughtful and rational (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    thinking about things in a very careful, deep, and logical way.

    characterized by a rational, analytic, or critically minded approach to a subject.

    Example

    She took a philosophical approach to the problem, looking at the facts instead of her feelings.

    Example

    The committee adopted a philosophical stance on the issue, prioritizing long-term logical consistency over immediate political gains.
Origin

From philosophy + -ical, from Ancient Greek φιλοσοφία (philosophía, “love of knowledge, scientific learning”). Displaced native Old English ūþwitlīċ.

Word family

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